A patient with terminal cancer presents for dental treatment planning. Which of the following treatments is LEAST appropriate?

Correct answer: D. Dental implant placement

• A. A removable prosthesis can be fabricated relatively quickly and improves esthetics and function without the long-term commitment of implants — appropriate for terminal patients.
• B. Palliative extraction of painful, non-restorable teeth is entirely appropriate and directly improves quality of life for terminal patients.
• C. Fluoride varnish/gel manages xerostomia-related caries common in patients receiving radiation therapy or with medication-induced dry mouth — an appropriate supportive care measure.
• D. CORRECT. Dental implants require a healing period of months to years for osseointegration, surgical procedures, and ongoing maintenance. For a patient with terminal cancer with limited life expectancy, implant placement is not appropriate — the patient would likely not survive long enough to complete the implant process or benefit from it. Palliation and comfort-focused care take priority.