Oral and maxillofacial side effects of radiation therapy on children.

ABSTRACT

Radiation therapy of the head and neck frequently results in serious and sometimes unavoidable changes to orofacial structures, particularly for children. Acute and chronic complications have a great impact on their oral function and quality of life. This paper provides an overview of the side effects of radiation therapy on children's oral and dental tissues, and highlights appropriate preventive guidelines and management strategies to minimize these complications.