Can prosthodontic rehabilitation support social eating and return to work in head and neck cancer survivors? A scoping review
摘要
Oral dysfunction following head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment is a significant barrier for survivors attempting to return to work. Prosthodontic rehabilitation, including the replacement of missing teeth, plays a crucial role in restoring oral functions and addressing social eating, aesthetics, and functional limitations, potentially aiding survivors’ re-entry into the workforce. This scoping review aims to map literature exploring the role of prosthodontic rehabilitation in facilitating social eating and return to work in HNC survivors.
MethodsWe systematically searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases up to February 15, 2024, for studies on return to work or social eating in HNC survivors, with a focus on tooth loss and prosthodontic rehabilitation post-treatment. An updated search was conducted on June 11, 2025.
ResultsThirteen studies were eligible, including four qualitative and nine quantitative works. Findings indicate a lack of studies directly linking prosthodontic rehabilitation to return to work and social eating. Limited quantitative data suggest that HNC survivors with dental prostheses, particularly implant-supported dentures, report fewer difficulties with social eating and employment compared to non-users. Qualitative data show that survivors value prosthodontic rehabilitation, particularly once their cancer is under control.
ConclusionsWhile limited, available evidence suggests that prosthodontic rehabilitation improves HNC survivors’ social eating, self-confidence, and quality of life, facilitating re-entry into the workforce. Implant-supported prostheses appear to offer better outcomes, enhancing social interactions and food choices.
Implications for Cancer SurvivorsFunctional dental prostheses enhance self-confidence in public eating and social interactions, highlighting their role in long-term well-being and survivorship.