“Does pediatric bone cancer affect the teeth?”

Cancer of the bone does not become cancer of the teeth. What can happen is that the teeth can get more decay or discoloration while getting chemotherapy for bone cancer, so maintain good oral care during chemotherapy.

The cancer itself may not affect the teeth, but could effect the jaws that support the teeth. Additionally, the treatment of the cancer (chemo, radiation) can cause the mouth to dry up and make the teeth more susceptible to decay. There are mouth rinses and prevention measures to help minimize this. Speak to your oncologist!!

Yes, in many ways. It will be very important for her to coordinate any dental treatment with the oncologist. If she is treated with radiation or chemotherapy there can be an effect on the adult teeth that are developing. Sometimes the shape can be different or some adult teeth may not develop depending on the dosage and timing of treatment. A very common side effect of radiation or chemotherapy is a dry mouth. "Xerostomia" can greatly increase the risk of future cavities and dentists sometimes prescribe fluoride therapy to combat this. There may be a decrease in her immune system or delayed healing and it will be important that she receive a clearance for cleanings and any dental work such as fillings or extractions. A good pediatric dentist will usually request her latest lab work (ANC and platelets) to make sure it is compatible with elective dental care. Ideally all dental work is completed before treatment begins and if not, sometimes dental care is deferred until after cancer treatment. The best scientific summary available on this is from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and can be found by Googling "Dental Management of Pediatric Patients Receiving Immunosuppressive Therapy and/or Radiation Therapy".

Marc D. Thomas, DDS