Systematic reviews were undertaken and research was graded according to the methods of the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. ‘Best practice’ recommendations were developed based on the evidence base regarding appropriate dental care and basic oral hygiene to support improved quality of life during treatment for children with cancer. The authors suggest that the guidelines have the potential to improve patient care by promoting interventions of proven benefit and discouraging use of ineffective or potentially harmful practices which may result in adverse patient outcomes.