Norma,
Its actually pretty straightforward.

1. Get your teeth cleaned at least 3-4 times a year. Get a high strength flouride treatment each time as well - bring your own dental trays for a much more pleasant experience.

2. Let your dentist know that you have had radiation and small repairs and fillings should be done sooner rather than later. Root canals shouldn't br a problem either.

3. Make sure that the hygenist cleans below the gumline.

4. Do at home flouride treatmnents weekly with your own dental trays. I was using Butler but had switched to Oral B, both pH nuetral flouride 0.9 strength foam. A prescription is reqired for these foams, they are not over the counter.

5. Floss before bed. Use a Water Pik and an electric toothbrush. I prefer the woven floss - it is much easier on the gums.

The risk of ORN, although small, is a lifetime risk so diligent dental care is a must.

If you need extractions, particularly if they were in the irradiation field or lower mandible, you will need to take extra precautions such as a course of Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO) therapy first.

The major CCC's usually have dental oncologists as well.

If I missed anything Jerry (our dentist board member) will fill in the blanks.