The Dental Oncology Service provides specialized services for patients undergoing treatmen, primarily for head and neck, blood, and skin cancers.

People with these cancers may require the services of a dental oncologist to help manage and minimize discomfort, oral pain, and/or infections associated with treatment. Dental oncologists can also anticipate and prevent future dental concerns.

DENTAL ONCOLOGY SERVICES

 Dental oncology provides a number of services to patients, including:

  • Assessment of the mouth and teeth before radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
  • preparation of the mouth before radiation therapy
  • diagnostic assessment of lesions inside the mouth
  • preparation of complex oral devices to aid radiation therapy treatment
  • management of the mouth and associated structures during and after radiation therapy and chemotherapy
  • Preparation of prostheses, which may be required as a result of surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy to the head and neck region.

 

TREATMENT RELATED SIDE-EFFECTS

 

When treatment kills cancer cells, it also damages healthy cells. This can cause a range of different side effects. It is important to speak to your treating team about any side effects or symptoms you might be experiencing.

 

WHEN TO CONTACT THE HOSPITAL URGENTLY

If it is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY CALL

If you have any of the following symptoms please contact Erode Cancer Centre straight away and ask for the registrar on call, on0424-2339704

  • a temperature over 38˚C or fever and chills (these might indicate an infection)
  • diarrhea that continues over 24 hours, particularly if watery
  • persistent vomiting that lasts more than 24 hours or nausea lasting more than 48 hours despite taking ant nausea
  • any abnormal bruising and bleeding
  • constipation: if you have not opened your bowels for more than two days
  • a cough or shortness of breath
  • a sudden decline in your health
  • Any changes in mood including feeling withdrawn, depressed or anxious