Oral tissue and irradiation therapy.

For patients with certain oral and nasopharyngeal tumors irradiation therapy, alone or combined with surgical procedures, can be a life-saving treatment. The professionals involved should be aware of the clinical and histological changes brought about by the therapy so that they may better assist the patient at this difficult time through education and relief of discomfort. Treatment of the irradiated patient is a challenge to the knowledge and skills of any dentist and office staff.