Computerized tomography, stereolithography and dental implants in the rehabilitation of oral cancer patients.

Abstract

As survival rates improve it is important to consider the quality of life for oral cancer patients post-treatment. The primary goal is removal of the tumour, however, with a gradual increase in survival rates, post-operative rehabilitation is now becoming increasingly important. Specialists in restorative dentistry, along with oral and maxillofacial surgeons, general dental practitioners and other members of the multidisciplinary team play a vital role in planning treatment for, and rehabilitating, these patients. This paper presents a case series to show how recent advances in computerized tomography (CT) and the use of stereolithographic models can help in the rehabilitation of oral cancer patients.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The principles discussed can also be applied to other patients undergoing dental implant treatment to help plan and carry out treatment and improve the quality of peri-implant tissues.