Dental Care During and After Cancer Treatment – What Are Patients Entitled To?

There is significant uncertainty and varying information regarding dental treatment rights for patients undergoing cancer care. Reports indicate inconsistent practices among dentists. The purpose of this year's World Oral Health Day (March 20, 2025) is to ensure that dentists, cancer coordinators, and healthcare professionals are well-equipped to inform patients about their rights to dental care during cancer treatment. The campaign focuses on education, information sharing, and enhancing patient access to necessary dental treatment and financial support.

Content:
The campaign will primarily feature a pre-recorded panel discussion addressing:

• The importance of oral health during cancer treatment.
• The interaction between dental care and cancer treatment.
• Patient rights and financial support for dental treatment.
• Specific measures that cancer coordinators and healthcare providers should know to prevent oral health complications during and after cancer treatment.

Key Topics Covered:

• How does cancer treatment impact oral health?
• When should patients seek dental care during treatment?
• What are the consequences of poor oral health on cancer treatment outcomes?
• How can patients access dental care through the Public Dental Service (DOT)?
• What treatments qualify for reimbursement from Helfo, and how can patients apply?
• Is dental insurance an option?
• Can patients apply for financial assistance from NAV for essential dental treatment?
• How can communication between dental services, cancer treatment teams, and patients be improved to ensure holistic care?

Panel Participants:

• Heming Olsen-Bergem, Specialist in Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, President of the Norwegian Dental Association (NTF).
• Heidi Brorson, Nurse and Senior Advisor at the Norwegian Cancer Society.
• Bente Brokstad Herlofson, Specialist in Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Chief Dental Officer at Rikshospitalet, and Professor at the University of Oslo.

Format:
The event will include a pre-recorded panel discussion (60–75 minutes) where key issues will be addressed. The recording will be available online after the event for educational purposes and further distribution. Additionally, informational posters will be created for display in waiting rooms, medical and dental offices, and social media campaigns will be launched.

The Norwegian Dental Association (NTF) will publish event details on its website and distribute information via newsletters, journal articles, and social media. Partner organizations are encouraged to do the same.

Target Groups:

• Dentists and dental professionals – to ensure they provide accurate information and treatment.
• Cancer coordinators and nurses – to help guide patients.
• General practitioners and oncologists – to ensure comprehensive patient follow-up.
• Patient organizations and cancer support groups – to spread information to a wider patient audience.

Campaign Goals:

1. Raise awareness among dentists and healthcare professionals about the importance of oral health during cancer treatment.
2. Strengthen patient access to necessary dental care by informing them of their rights.
3. Increase knowledge about patient entitlements, including how dentists and cancer coordinators can ensure proper support.
4. Promote interdisciplinary collaboration between dental professionals and cancer specialists to improve holistic cancer care.