After Treatment

After treatment for AdCC ends, talk with your doctor about developing a follow-up care plan. This plan may include regular physical examinations and/or medical tests to monitor your recovery for the coming months and years.

People treated with surgery may need rehabilitation to regain functioning and flexibility. Follow-up care by an oncologic dentist may be needed after radiation therapy. Sometimes, care may be given by a prosthodontist (a dental specialist with additional training and certification in the restoration and replacement of broken teeth with crowns, bridges, and removable prosthetics [dentures]) if major surgery to the mouth or jaw has taken place during treatment.

Intense treatments to the head and neck can affect swallowing, and patients may experience pain. These symptoms can be treated and, in most cases, subside some time after therapy.

Some people may experience depression following treatment, and this may require specialized therapy as well. Most cancer centers have support groups that encourage people to become more informed about these issues.

Periodically, people need follow-up care with their doctor to monitor the effects of treatment and to check for recurrences or distant metastases, which may occur even years after successful primary treatment. There is no known way to prevent recurrence of AdCC. A secondary cancer is rare in AdCC.

People recovering from AdCC are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health, such as maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and having recommended cancer screening tests. Talk with your doctor to develop a plan that is best for your needs. Moderate physical activity can help rebuild your strength and energy level. Your doctor can help you create an appropriate exercise plan based upon your needs, physical abilities, and fitness level. Learn more about Healthy Living After Cancer.

To learn about the terms used in this section, read the Cancer.Net Feature: Cancer Terms to Know: After Treatment.