There really isn't any reason why any competent dentist can't manage your husbands dental health. You must set some requirements up front however and be your own advocate.

Extractions are a no no and must be avoided at all costs, particularly if they are in the radiation field.

If extractions are unavoidable then HBO must be considered to prevent ORN.

Some dentists will put off minor repairs for financial consideration of the patient. For cancer patients the minor repairs need to be done well before they become major issues. Careful and extremely thorough examinations are the rule.

Routine cleaning and flouride treatments need to be doubled and he should have dental trays fitted and perform at home flouride treatments with prescription flouride foam.

Also make sure that the hygenist cleans below the gumline - believe it or not, some don't. Ultrasonic scalers seem to be more efficient and thorough than manual scaling.

I still use a Water Pik, floss constantly (use woven floss) and even have a battery operated Panasonic (type of Water Pik) for travel purposes. Biotene products are excellent for dry mouth and are readliy available from most supermarket chains.

There are usually no problems with fillings, crowns or even root canals. Jerry, our resident dentist/survivor will probably elaborate some more when he returns from his vacation.

Regular x-rays and a full mouth pano every few years is a good thing as well.

These are all about prevention and meticulous dental hygiene - for life.

As a side bar, I saw a dental oncologist at a major CCC (as a requirement of my pre Tx work up) and he recommended pulling ALL of my well maintained teeth. I told him to go and screw himself. 4 years later, I still have all of my teeth and couldn't be happier. I see the same dentist I have been seeing for over 20 years. I trained him on what my needs were and he graciously accomodates me.