The Effect of Cancer and Its Management on Orthodontic Treatment Outcomes: Systematic Review

Orthodontic treatment for patients undergoing cancer therapy presents unique challenges due to the effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy on oral health. The impact of oncological treatments on orthodontic outcomes, including dental development, malocclusions, and treatment success, remains an area of ongoing research. This systematic review aim to evaluate the influence of radiotherapy and anti-neoplastic drugs on the successful completion of orthodontic treatment plans.A comprehensive literature search was conducted across six databases following PRISMA guidelines. The PICOS framework guided the study selection, focusing on individuals with dental or occlusal issues undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment. Eligible studies included retrospective, case-control, prospective case-control, and cross-sectional designs. The review included studies from various regions with diverse sample sizes. Findings indicated that 60% of children receiving chemotherapy achieved successful orthodontic outcomes, though chemotherapy significantly reduced treatment efficacy for certain malocclusions. Radiation therapy was associated with an increased risk of root resorption and microdontia compared to chemotherapy. Cancer treatments significantly influence orthodontic treatment success, with chemotherapy and radiotherapy impacting dental outcomes in distinct ways. While orthodontic treatment remains viable for cancer patients, individualized planning and multidisciplinary collaboration are crucial to optimizing results. Future research should focus on larger prospective studies to refine treatment guidelines and address confounding factors affecting orthodontic outcomes in oncological patients.