A qualitative analysis of dental challenges for oncology patients receiving bone-modifying agents

BACKGROUND: Bone-modifying agents (BMAs) play an integral role in cancer care treatments. Their interface with dentistry remains challenging for oncology patients receiving BMAs and their general dental practitioners (GDPs) providing care for them. This article uses qualitative research methods to explore the challenges of dental care for patients and GDPs receiving BMAs. METHODS: The study recruited 10 oncology patients receiving BMAs and 20 GDPs. The oncology patients participated in a focus group (n = 6) or qualitative interviews (n = 4) via telephone interviews. GDPs participated in three separate focus groups (n = 20). The interactions were recorded and transcribed, and thematic analysis was completed. RESULTS: Analyses of the results highlighted recurrent themes amongst both patients and GDPs. These could be divided into the awareness of MRONJ, the burden of dental care, treatment planning strategies in this cohort of patients, and multidisciplinary co-ordinated care. CONCLUSION: Integration of dental services into oncology care remains an important aspect of BMA treatment for oncology patients. This article discusses relevant qualitative factors regarding the onco-dental interface and serves as a real-life template to optimise dental oncology care.