Smoldering refers to a suppressed state. In this case the infection is present but not acute enough to be symptomatic or picked up on exam/xrays.

What still confuses me is the fact that after consultation with oral surgeon experienced in HNC, at Dana-Farber Cancer Center, Boston, the recommendation was for follow-up with general dentist. I wanted to return there for check ups but she told Bob it was not necessary. We could contact her with any questions or forward xrays to her.

We have now settled on Institute For Head, Neck, & Thyroid Cancer, NYC. I don't know what their recommendations would have been in the past. However, it is note worthy that 3 months ago, NY dentist said to leave tooth #!8 alone. This past week recommendation is for extraction. So it's the same pattern again. Don't take a chance disturbing teeth ahead of time, but eventually no option but to extract.

This tooth was also checked 3 months ago by excellent endodontist and no problem found.

On the forum we keep talking about dentists/oral surgeons experienced with HNC. Do we know if it actually make a difference in outcomes?