Radiotherapy and the survival of dental implants: A systematic review

The effects of head and neck cancer treatment with adjuvant radiotherapy can be devastating for patients. There is frequently loss of function due to tooth loss, pain and discomfort from xerostomia and mucositis, and a significant psycho-social impact. Dental implants provide an effective means of rehabilitation for many; however, irradiation poses a unique set of challenges that can affect the outcome of treatment. The aim of this review is to evaluate whether radiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients affects dental implant survival and discuss the details of pertinent influencing factors.
Source: The British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Category: ENT & OMF Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research