The Department of Dental and Prosthetics Surgery specializes in providing specialized dental care for patients diagnosed with cancer. This department focuses on addressing the unique dental needs of individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
One of the primary objectives of the department is the rehabilitation of head and neck cancer patients following ablative surgery. This involves the use of various prosthetic devices such as obturators, guide plane prostheses, and tongue prostheses. These prostheses are designed to restore oral function and improve the quality of life for patients who have undergone surgical removal of tissues in the head and neck region.
Furthermore, the department is in the process of starting placement of implant-retained maxillofacial prostheses. These prostheses can be intra-oral, meaning they are placed within the oral cavity, or extra-oral, where they are situated on the outside of the face. Implant-supported prostheses provide a stable and secure solution for patients who require this form of treatment, ensuring optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.
By offering a comprehensive range of dental and prosthetic services, the Department of Dental and Prosthetic Surgery plays a crucial role in supporting the oral health and overall well-being of cancer patients, enabling them to regain oral function, enhance appearance, and improve their quality of life.
Dentistry-Oncology, also known as Dental Oncology or Oral Oncology, is a specialized field that focuses on the dental and oral health care needs of individuals diagnosed with cancer. It involves the management and treatment of oral complications arising from cancer therapies, as well as providing comprehensive oral care to support patients before, during, and after cancer treatment.
The main objectives of Dental Oncology include:
Oral Cancer Screening: Dental Oncology professionals play a crucial role in early detection and screening of oral cancer. They examine the oral cavity for any signs or symptoms of cancer and perform diagnostic tests if necessary.
Treatment Planning: Dental Oncology specialists collaborate with the oncology team to develop individualized treatment plans for patients. They assess the oral health status and determine the appropriate dental procedures or interventions needed before cancer treatment begins.
Dental Care Prior to Cancer Treatment: Dental Oncology focuses on providing necessary dental care and addressing any pre-existing oral conditions before cancer treatment commences. This may involve dental cleanings, fillings, extractions, or other procedures to ensure a healthy oral environment.
Oral Complications Management: During cancer treatment, patients may experience various oral complications, such as mucositis, xerostomia (dry mouth), infection, and pain. Dental Oncology professionals provide supportive care and manage these complications to improve the quality of life for patients.
Oral Rehabilitation: Dental Oncology helps patients with dental and oral rehabilitation following cancer treatment. This includes prosthetic rehabilitation, dental implants, and other restorative procedures to restore oral function and aesthetics.
Patient Education: Dental Oncology specialists educate patients about oral hygiene practices, diet modifications, and self-care techniques to minimize the risk of oral complications and maintain oral health during and after cancer treatment.
It's important to note that the availability and extent of Dental Oncology services may vary between healthcare institutions. For comprehensive information on Dental Oncology services at a specific facility like Dr. BBCI Guwahati.
