The multidisciplinary team (MDT)
This is a team of health professionals who work together to decide on the best treatment and care for you. It can include:
- specialist head and neck surgeons
- doctors who specialise in cancer drug treatments (medical oncologist)
- doctors who specialise in radiotherapy (clinical oncologist)
- restorative dental specialists
- a head and neck clinical nurse specialist
- speech and language therapists
- dietitians
Specialist head and neck surgeon
Head and neck surgeons may include:
- ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons
- oral and maxillofacial surgeons
- plastic surgeons
ENT surgeon
These are qualified specialist surgeons trained in treating conditions of the ear, nose, throat and neck. They can also be called otolaryngologists.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
They are doctors trained both as doctors and dentists. These surgeons remove the cancer and also rebuild the tissue lost due to the cancer or surgery.
Plastic surgeons
Sometimes a plastic surgeon may rebuild the area where the surgeon has removed cancer. This is called reconstruction. Plastic surgery is common after surgery to remove a cancer of the head and neck.
Radiotherapy and drug treatment specialist (oncologists)
They are specialist doctors and plan your treatment using:
- chemotherapy
- targeted cancer drugs
- radiotherapy
Restorative dental specialist
A restorative dentist is a specialist in replacing lost tissues and teeth.
They assess your teeth before you have treatment. And may recommend that you have some teeth removed if they are decaying or loose. This is so they don't cause problems later on.
The restorative dentist also gives you advice on how to look after your mouth and teeth during and after treatment. You may also see a dental hygienist to help keep your mouth and teeth clean. And reduce the risk of infection.
The restorative dentist will also help your recovery. They may suggest using false teeth or a replacement part (prosthesis). They can help to make your facial appearance as normal as possible after treatment.
Head and neck clinical nurse specialist
A clinical nurse specialist is a qualified nurse who has knowledge of head and neck cancers. They help to organise the care between doctors and other health professionals. They support you during and after treatment and make sure you have the information you need to understand the treatment.
A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is often your key worker.
Dietitian
Dietitians play an essential role in helping you with problems you may have with your diet and eating. You usually met them before your treatment and regularly throughout.
Speech and language therapist
Speech and language therapists play an important role during your treatment. They help you with speech and swallowing difficulties. And help you eat and drink safely. They can give information to your family or carer on how to support you with swallowing difficulties. They will continue to help you throughout your treatment.
Other health professionals
You may also need help and support from other health specialists, for example, 
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