Oral diseases are common, and may be specific to the oral cavity or a manifestation of a systemic condition. Signs and symptoms are normally mild or moderate, but are occasionally severe.They are usually the consequence of complications in treatment for systemic diseases, and can result in treatment breaks - this is illustrated by cancer remedies such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapies, which can all induce oral complications (1,2). A wide range of incidence and severity of different complications of cancer treatments have been reported.They include pain, caries and periodontal diseases, but also more severe problems such as mucositis,aphtous ulcers, bleeding, xerostomia, dysphagia, dysgeusia, infection (bacterial, viral and fungal), and osteoradionecrosis of the jaw. In the worst cases, these concerns can result in difficulties with eating, drinking and even speaking, and can lead to weight loss, dehydration or sometimes life-threatening complications such as systemic infections. Hospitalisation for supplemental nutrition and rehydration may be needed. In these situations, the quality of life of patients is markedly altered, and cancer treatments may be interrupted, with detrimental consequences for survival.
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