What is the effect of radiotherapy as a treatment for cancer on dental management?

In addition to what Lia stated, make sure to see the dentist regularly as the dryness in the mouth will likely cause cavities that will need to be treated. Also, the dentist will usually give a fluoride prescription.

I would ask your oncologist about this. My b/f is undergoing chemotherapy for A.L.L. Leukemia, and just this morning discovered a cavity in one of his molars. In fact, he just walked out the door to go to the hospital blood work laboratory to have his RBC/WBC/Platelet counts checked, as per the advice of his oncologist. They've advised him that as long as his levels are high enough (he's been anemic and nutropenic for approx a week), that he should get the tooth pulled ASAP. They also told him (for the 1st time this morning- THANKS a BUNCH, Dr??) that cancer treatment is notorious for causing dental complications. He only had 12 30-second administrations of radiation to his brain, as a preventative measure (so we were told), about 3 months ago, so I'm not too sure the extent to which radiotherapy affects the teeth, but I assume it's probably a factor worth scheduling an appointment with a dentist to have it checked out.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones for a quick recovery, in any case. I wish you all the positivity that I can muster your way, friend! Stay strong.

Xerostomia or commonly known as dry mouth. There is a product OTC called Biotene. It encourages salivary glands to produce saliva. It comes in mouthwash, toothpaste and gum. Because of dry mouth, you may be more susceptible to Periodontal disease.

ya i would consult with your oncologist for the best answer. but if you feel a cavity your dentist will most likely want to confirm with an xray of the area.

undergoing an extended amount of radiotherapy may just have to put your annual exam on hold for the time being, unless you otherwise are expeirencing any difficulties

It depends on where the radiotherapy was aimed. Usually, areas below the chest area are pretty clear of the head and neck area, so they aren't much of a problem. Radiotherapy to head and neck and upper chest can have effects on the oral cavity. The most common symptom of this is the dry mouth caused by decreased salivary secretion. This can lead to increased decay especially around the necks of teeth. The gums and cheek linings can also become inflamed, which is called mucositis. Extractions of teeth, especially lowers can be extremely risky, as this can lead to a phenomenon called osteoradionecrosis, where the jaw bone is severely destroyed after extraction, due to reduced blood flow to the lower jaw caused by radiation therapy. Usually, it is extremely important to have as much of the patient's dental work done before radiotherapy, and continue preventive treatment during and after radiotherapy. Most large cancer hopsitals may have a dental department who specialise in the treatment of dental conditions on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Good luck, I hope it all works out for you.