Systemic disease and medical therapies frequently impact oral health, necessitating specialist-led dental management. Care is provided for medically complex patients where medical conditions, medications, or therapies influence oral function, comfort, and disease risk.
A key focus is the management of xerostomia and salivary gland hypofunction, commonly associated with autoimmune disease, head and neck radiotherapy, and medication-related effects. Reduced salivary flow increases the risk of dental caries, oral infections, mucosal discomfort, and functional impairment.
Taste disturbance, altered oral sensation, and burning symptoms may arise from systemic illness, nutritional deficiencies, neurological conditions, or pharmacological effects. These symptoms are often multifactorial and require careful assessment.
Management includes comprehensive review of medical history and medications, targeted investigations where required, and individualised treatment strategies. Care may involve saliva-stimulating measures, topical therapies, preventive dental protocols, dietary advice, and close liaison with medical practitioners.
Patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, cancer treatment, or complex medical care benefit from preventative oral strategies and ongoing monitoring to minimise complications.
Referrals are encouraged for patients with systemic disease affecting oral health, complex medication profiles, dry mouth, taste disturbance, or oral symptoms complicating medical management. Clear communication and shared care are prioritised to ensure coordinated and patient-centred outcomes.
Dental management in patients with:
- Autoimmune disease
- Immunosuppression
- Cancer therapy (chemo / radiotherapy)
- HSCT / transplant history
Medication-related oral complications
Oral adverse drug reactions
