 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | Hi Dogman,
The HBO treatments are needed so that the bone can heal after the extractions. Osteoradionecrosis occurs from radiating the bone resulting in a loss of blood suppply to the bone. Adequate blood supply is needed so the bone can heal normally. The HBO treatments stimulate the formation of new blood vessels.
Many people have had radiation and not had to have teeth extracted. Having all your teeth out is an old treatment procedure that is not followed much anymore.
You should get the teeth out and then do everything you can to prevent other teeth from getting to the point of needing extraction.
Good luck.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
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