Szabó, AdriennHo, Kha Minh Thu2026-05-042026-05-042026-02-27https://hdl.handle.net/2437/406742Radiotherapy is an indispensible component of head and neck cancer management. Despite its therapeutic efficacy, radiotherapy frequently causes significant oral complications such as oral mucositis, xerostomia, trismus and the severe bone condition known as osteoradionecrosis. This thesis emphasizes that the dentists are essential members of the multidisciplinary oncology team, responsible for stabilizing the oral environment before the start of cancer treatment. Pre-radiotherapy care focuses on identifying infection sources and performing necessary, atraumatic extractions at least 14-21 days prior to radiation treatment. During radiotherapy, management shifts towards monitoring mucosal changes and providing palliative care for acute side effects like pain and inflammation. Long-term protocols include life-long fluoride application to prevent rampant radiation caries and specific jaw exercise to relieve trismus. Ultimately, integrated dental management is critical to maintain patient's nutritional status, oral function, and overall quality of life throughout their recovery.45enHead and neck cancerRadiotherapyRadiotherapy techniquesRadiobiologyOral side effects of radiotherapyOsteoradionecrosisRadiation-induced cariesTrismusMedicineHozzáférhető a 2022 decemberi felsőoktatási törvénymódosítás értelmében.