Prosthetic evaluation of patients who have received irradiation to the head and neck regions

The dentist must understand the effect of radiation on oral tissues, as well as the possible complications, before contemplating dentures for patients who have received radiotherapy to the head and neck region. Generally, no dentures should be constructed for a minimum of one year following irradiation. A thorough review must be made of the nature of the patient's radiation therapy. A meticulous oral examination must be performed, the dentures must be constructed in a nontraumatic manner using certain special precautions, and an active follow-up system must be established. The patient must completely understand the nature of the program, and the possible complications that may develop.