Head and Neck Cancer for the Dental Team

Overview

Though potentially lethal, cancers of the head and neck are highly treatable, particularly when diagnosed early. Dental practitioners may be at the front line for early detection and diagnosis. Head and neck pathology can be discovered with a thorough intra-oral, extra-oral and radiographic examination. We have known for many years that tobacco and alcohol are common risk factors but we now know that infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) is a risk factor for cancer of the back of the throat, base of the tongue, and tonsils. There is currently an epidemic of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers. HPV will be discussed in detail including tips on how to effectively talk to patients about the virus and prevention through vaccination.

The course will provide examples of clinical abnormalities including potentially malignant lesions and cancers that may present in the soft tissues of the oral cavity, face, neck, and oropharynx, and discuss when to biopsy or refer.

Therapies used to treat head and neck cancers can sometimes lead to short- and long-term oral and dental problems. Most commonly oral mucositis, infections, radiation caries, hyposalivation and trismus may result. The dental management of acute and chronic reactions will be discussed in detail. The pre- and post- cancer therapy considerations for the dental team will be presented. Additionally, updates on tobacco and vaping abuse will be provided.

Objectives:

At the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Identify the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer and outline the risk factors for development
• Provide the proper technique to perform a comprehensive head and neck exam and take a good history
• Detail the role of HPV infection in the increased incidence of oropharyngeal cancer and define what HPV is, how it is passed, diagnosed, and prevented
• Understand the acute and chronic sequelae of head and neck cancer therapies, including radiation and chemotherapy
• Address chronic nicotine addiction in dental patients

Course Contact: madeline@ridental.org

Course Categories: Oral Pathology (Diagnosis and Treatment of Oral Pathosis, HPV/ Herpes Virus, Oral Cancer, Sexually Transmitted Infections)

Provider Approval: (ADA-CERP) American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program approved providers

Educational Type: Self Study

Educational Method: Electronically mediated with a testing mechanism (internet, one-way & two-way transmissions through open broadcast, closed circuit, cable, microwave, broadband lines, fiber optics, satellite, or wireless communications devices)

Prerequisites : n/a
Sponsor(s) : Eastern Dentists Insurance Company

None

All CE Zoom related support: support.cezoom.com