Dentistry and the cancer patient: Part 1--Oral manifestations and complications of chemotherapy.

Abstract

Chemotherapy is frequently used as a primary or adjunctive modality in the treatment of patients with cancer. As the incidence of cancer in the population increases, the ability to properly detect, diagnose, and treat oral side effects of chemotherapy becomes ever more important. Depending on the types and dosages of chemotherapeutic agents used, a wide range of oral complications may appear. This article, in two parts, reviews the potential oral manifestations associated with cancer chemotherapy and appropriate management techniques.