Salivary gland damage is the most common adverse effect associated with radiation therapy to the head and neck. A combination of hyposalivation and dietary changes, with a reduced emphasis on oral hygiene practices can contribute to a massive increase in a person’s caries risk status. This can be further complicated by limited mouth opening. To enable optimal dental care for head and neck cancer patients before, during and after radiation therapy, patients must be informed and educated about the potential risks of dental caries and the preventive strategies available. All patients should receive a pre-radiotherapy dental assessment by a Restorative Dentistry Consultant. This information will be delivered to the patient, often at an emotionally charged time, and can be lost amongst all the information related to other aspects of his/her cancer management. General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) are therefore in a pivotal position to reiterate this information post radiation therapy and ensure compliance with preventive strategies, with the overall aim to improve quality of life and avoid the need for future extractions and the resulting risk of osteoradionecrosis. Clinical relevance: This article highlights the GDP’s role in the shared management of head and neck cancer patients who have received radiotherapy as part of their cancer treatment. The critical issue of dental caries, one of the late effects of radiation-induced hyposalivation, will be focused upon. Other side-effects, such as trismus and osteoradionecrosis, will also be discussed. This article aims to supply GDPs with accurate information to provide to their patients with post radiation therapy, whilst highlighting what treatment is within their remit and when it may be appropriate to refer.

Ectodermal dysplasia is a hereditary disorder that is characterised by abnormalities in the development of embryologically derived ectodermal tissues and structures. Many patients with this condition can present with oligodontia or anodontia. Subsequently, this can lead to aesthetic and functional problems that can have negative effects on self‐esteem, self‐image and overall quality of life. Therefore, for this group of patients, there is a demand for prosthetic treatment in early childhood that is effective in managing their specific issues. This case series presents a method of prosthetic rehabilitation that uses dental implant‐retained overdentures for two paediatric patients with ectodermal dysplasia. We discuss the treatment options and limitations of conventional removable prostheses for these patients, and the rationale for implant placement. Furthermore, we discuss the significance of the psychological well‐being of the child and the positive effects that this treatment can have during their crucial early years of development and school years. Currently, there is limited evidence available for the use of dental implants in children. Thus, a multi‐disciplinary team approach with appropriate planning and parental involvement is essential for successful outcomes.

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The aetiological factors related to many dental anomalies are still uncertain. Clinical descriptive terms may be useful but the distinction between different anomalies is often unclear. This paper describes a case of dental anomaly affecting the mandibular canines. These teeth exhibit a combination of hypoplasia and dilaceration. In addition, the left hand canine is fused with the adjacent lateral incisor. The possible aetiologies will be explored and we will discuss the management options in this unusual case. Clinical Relevance: This case highlights the diverse nature of dental anomalies. They are often difficult to classify when severe malformation has occurred. It is not always possible to determine the aetiology of dental anomalies. It is important to recognize that the management of dental anomalies may require a multidisciplinary approach.