My husband's dental oncologist at Johns Hopkins called my husband's regular dentist after Barry was through treatment, and they discussed "what you can do and what I (the dental onc) should do." He also filled the dentist in on some "red flags" to watch for, and gave him a few references on dental impacts of HNC radiation therapy.

Essentially, he said the regular dentist can do cleanings, fillings, and other routine care that does not involve dental surgery. We asked the dental onc about root canals, should one be needed, and he indicated he would like to be notified but that he felt the regular dentist could probably do one with appropriate precautions.

Barry's teeth came through radiation in good shape and he is meticulous about care, cleanings 4x a year and daily application of fluoride trays. He also uses dental gum (Xylimax, which increases mouth moisture and also helps prevent cavities). Barry is one year+ out from treatment, & saw dental oncologist for a 6-month check-up just last month and he was very pleased with his dental condition but we know it requires constant vigilance.

Gail