Strategies to manage the oral health impacts of head and neck cancer treatment: a scoping review

Objectives: This review aimed to: (1) provide a detailed characterisation of strategies reported in the literature to manage oral health impacts of head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment; (2) describe and analyse the outcomes associated with these strategies; and (3) explore their effectiveness in improving oral health and patient well-being. Data Sources: A scoping review was conducted using the JBI framework and PRISMA-ScR checklist. Systematic searches across major electronic databases identified studies reporting oral health interventions for HNC patients across pre-treatment, treatment, and post-treatment phases. Study Selection: Thirteen studies were included. Reported strategies comprised preventive interventions (such as educational programs and preventive dental care), dental procedures, technology-assisted tools, and interprofessional models of care. These approaches demonstrated positive impacts but also revealed key gaps, including limited continuity of oral health support, unclear optimal intervention points, and underdeveloped approaches to patient self-management that could reduce reliance on healthcare resources. Conclusions: Comprehensive, multidisciplinary strategies are essential to improve oral health outcomes and quality of life for patients with HNC. However, systemic inequalities and the absence of standardised protocols continue to restrict effective implementation. Development of evidence-based guidelines, integrated care models, and appropriately timed interventions are critical to advance oral health management in cancer care. Clinical significance: This review highlights effective oral health management strategies for patients undergoing head and neck cancer treatment, including preventive care, education, technology-assisted tools, and interprofessional collaboration. The findings can guide clinicians in delivering timely, patient-centred oral health support, inform policy on integrating dental care into cancer pathways, and empower patients through self-management. Adoption of these approaches may improve quality of life, treatment outcomes, and healthcare efficiency in head and neck cancer care.