Head and neck radiation therapy — used for cancers of the oral cavity, throat, salivary glands, and surrounding areas — permanently affects bone vasculature in the irradiated area. Implant placement in irradiated bone carries elevated risk of osteoradionecrosis (ORN). WeCare's protocol determines if you are a candidate, and modifies surgical approach when proceeding.
Risk Stratification
Low-dose radiation (under 50 Gy): Risk of ORN is low. Standard protocol applies with extended antibiotic regimen.
Moderate-dose radiation (50-65 Gy): Risk increases. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) sometimes recommended pre-surgery — typically 20 sessions at 2.4 ATA pre-op + 10 sessions post-op.
High-dose radiation (over 65 Gy): ORN risk is significantly elevated. Implant surgery considered carefully; some areas (mandibular molar region) at highest risk and often avoided.
Time since radiation: Surgery generally deferred at least 6 months after completion of radiation therapy. Risk decreases somewhat over time.
What We Need
WhatsApp +90 551 086 83 68 with:
- Cancer treatment history
- Radiation therapy summary (total dose, fields, completion date)
- Current oncologist contact
- Recent panoramic X-ray
- Recent CBCT if available
- Any history of jaw infection or osteoradionecrosis
Within 48-72 hours (case complexity warrants longer review) we send an honest assessment of whether implants are safe for your case, what HBO coordination would be needed, and projected outcomes.
Honest Assessment
For some post-radiation patients, dental implants are not the right choice. Alternatives:
- Implant-retained dentures with reduced implant count (2-3 instead of 4)
- Conventional dentures
- Implant placement only in non-irradiated bone segments
We will not place implants when the risk-benefit ratio is unfavourable. Patient safety dominates marketing.
