Cancer

September 6, 2010

Cancer treatment through radiation and chemotherapy can lead to many debilitating oral conditions. Radiotherapy can have direct affects on salivary glands and oral tissues when they fall within the field of radiation exposure. Pain, infections, rapid tooth decay and dry mouth are among the many oral health implications of cancer treatment. Additionally, some drugs used in many chemotherapy regimens result in an increased risk for osteonecrosis of the jaw, a very difficult condition where bone tissue is lost to infections.

Many of these side effects can be avoided or greatly reduced with diligent oral care and participation by the dental team in the overall cancer treatment. Early intervention in the pre-treatment workup can reduce oral complications by completing all necessary restorations, removing teeth with a poor prognosis prior to cancer treatment and establishing a preventive plan that includes increased visits to the dentist.

Delta Dental of Wisconsin's Evidence-Based Integrated Care Plan (EBICP) offers additional cleanings and topical fluoride application for persons who are undergoing cancer treatment involving radiation and/or chemotherapy. Click the link below to find out if your group plan includes EBICP and to sign up for these important additional benefits.

EBICP benefits for persons undergoing cancer therapy

With an indicator for cancer-related chemotherapy and/or radiation, a participant is eligible for up to two additional dental visits in a benefit year for periodontal maintenance or adult prophylaxis. Participants are also eligible for topical fluoride application beyond the age limitation of the group contract. Coverage will be at the group-contracted benefit level. There is no end date on this additional coverage. There is no age requirement and the patient may be the subscriber, spouse or other covered dependent.

Read our white paper to learn more about cancer treatment and oral health.