Efficacy of Oral Rehabilitation Techniques in Patients With Oral Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract

Oral cancer commonly affects various parts of the oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, gums, palate, and inner cheeks. Oral rehabilitation involves multiple approaches aimed at restoring and improving oral function, esthetics, and overall well-being. This study assessed the functional outcomes and quality of life in patients who underwent rehabilitation following an oral cancer diagnosis. A comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Dimensions, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, and Google Scholar databases. The study included patients diagnosed with oral cancer who had undergone oral rehabilitation. Functional outcomes and quality of life were key selection criteria. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed, and data were systematically extracted and analyzed. A significant relationship was observed between the type of maxillectomy and quality of life, with obturator retention and stability being critical factors. Radiotherapy was found to adversely impact oral function and implant survival rates, with a strong correlation between radiation treatment and reduced implant survival (p < 0.00001). Additionally, dentition and the timing of implant placement were associated with recurrence rates and adverse effects. The findings highlight the crucial role of oral rehabilitation in improving both functional outcomes and quality of life in oral cancer patients. This study underscores the importance of incorporating oral rehabilitation into oral cancer treatment to enhance patient recovery and overall health.