Dental factors in the genesis of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity

This study investigated the role of dental factors in the genesis of squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity. 99 newly diagnosed patients with advanced head and neck cancer were evaluated for potential demographic, dental and prosthetic risk factors. Patients with extra-oral malignancies were used as controls in the analysis of dental factors in patients with intra-oral cancers. We performed multiple comparisons of these factors against the primary tumour sites. An analysis of dental and prosthetic factors and patients with intra-oral versus extra-oral tumours revealed no significant differences. However, all 28 intra-oral malignancies arose in areas in contact with teeth and/or appliances. For example, all 10 oral tongue lesions arose on the lateral borders and all six floor of (drop) mouth primary tumours developed at the flange extension of a lower denture. Patients with partial or full dentures had significantly lower node (N) scores than patients without a prosthesis. Although this paper suggests a relationship between dental factors and the genesis of oral squamous cell malignancies, a larger prospective study would be required to achieve definitive data. Patients at risk should be followed carefully for the development of chronic irritation from teeth and appliances. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.