An update on radiation caries

Abstract

Radiation caries describes the rapid onset and progression of dental caries in patients who have received radiotherapy to the head and neck. The combination of salivary gland damage resulting in hyposalivation and a cariogenic diet can have catastrophic consequences with a considerable impact on the quality of life of individuals. Caries risk must be managed at all stages of the patient's head and neck cancer journey from the pre-assessment to their lifelong maintenance. This paper provides an overview of the aetiology, presentation and management of radiation caries demonstrated with clinical cases. CPD/Clinical Relevance: With the increasing incidence of head and neck cancer, clinicians should be aware of the significance of radiation caries, understand its specialist management and be able to contribute to the patient's long-term management.