What Cancer Patients Need to Know About Dental Implants
For patients with head and neck cancer (HNC), implants in the irradiated upper jaw may have lower survival rates than those placed in the lower jaw. This research was published on September 11 in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America.
Furthermore, implants in irradiated bone grafts or free flaps may have even lower success rates. The added risks from radiation therapy should be considered to ensure successful implantation in cancer patients, the authors wrote.
"Irradiated patients should be informed about the potential complications associated with dental implant installation, such as implant failure and osteoradionecrosis," wrote the authors, led by Dr. Yoram Fleissig, MSc, of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel.
The research team reviewed existing literature on the long-term survival of dental implants in patients with HNC who have undergone radiation therapy. There was variability in reported radiation doses and their impact on implants, emphasizing the need for cautious analysis...
Click Here to Read More
Furthermore, implants in irradiated bone grafts or free flaps may have even lower success rates. The added risks from radiation therapy should be considered to ensure successful implantation in cancer patients, the authors wrote.
"Irradiated patients should be informed about the potential complications associated with dental implant installation, such as implant failure and osteoradionecrosis," wrote the authors, led by Dr. Yoram Fleissig, MSc, of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel.
The research team reviewed existing literature on the long-term survival of dental implants in patients with HNC who have undergone radiation therapy. There was variability in reported radiation doses and their impact on implants, emphasizing the need for cautious analysis...
Click Here to Read More