# Dentists’ knowledge and practices in supportive care: a French national survey

## TL;DR

This study explores how French dentists manage oral supportive care for cancer patients and highlights significant knowledge gaps and training needs.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into French dentists' practices and knowledge gaps in oral supportive care for cancer patients.

## Key findings

- 96% of responding dentists treat cancer patients, with head and neck cancers being over-represented.
- 73% of dentists rated their knowledge of supportive care below 5/10, and 27% were unaware of therapy-related risks.
- Only 29% of dentists reported having knowledge of supportive care in oncology, with 89% needing further training.

## Abstract

Oral supportive care is essential in comprehensive cancer management, particularly for patients with head and neck cancer and those with hematologic cancers, who experience significant oral complications. While supportive care has been extensively explored in medical oncology, dentists’ knowledge and practices regarding oral supportive care for cancer patients remain understudied. This study aimed to assess French dentists’ knowledge, practices, and training needs regarding supportive care for cancer patients.

A cross-sectional survey was distributed electronically to dental surgeons across France through Departmental Councils of the Order of Dental Surgeons. The questionnaire investigated practitioners’ knowledge of cancer patient management, care modalities, encountered difficulties, knowledge of supportive care, and training needs.

Among 165 respondents, 96% reported treating cancer patients, with head and neck cancers being significantly over-represented compared to general population incidence. Among respondents, 89% expressed concern about supportive care in oncology, while 73% rated their knowledge in this area below 5/10, and 27% were unaware of risks associated with cancer therapies. Head and neck cancers (54%) and hematological malignancies (15%) presented the greatest management challenges. The most common difficulties included performing invasive procedures (46.7%), writing prescriptions (45.8%), and completing medical questionnaires (40.2%). Only 29% of dentists reported having knowledge of supportive care in oncology, with 89% expressing a need for further training.

French dentists demonstrate concern about their role in cancer patient care, yet face significant knowledge gaps and training deficiencies. Enhanced educational programs, improved interprofessional communication, and clear clinical guidelines specifically designed for dental professionals are needed to optimize supportive care delivery for cancer patients.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00520-026-10392-9.