Dental needs of patients with myotonic dystrophy

The aim of this study was to assess oral health and motoric ability in persons with myotonic dystrophy in comparison with a control group of healthy persons and find out whether an increased need of dental care exists in persons with reduced motoric ability. Twenty-seven persons, mean age 45, with the diagnosis myotonic dystrophy were compared with an age- and sex-matched control group. The dental status was determined from orthopantomograms and bite-wing radiographs. Oral hygiene, using a simplified index, periodontal pocket depth and alveolar bone height were recorded. Additionally, the finger force of the patient was recorded in order to evaluate the muscular capacity. Compared to control persons, persons with myotonic dystrophy had a lower finger force. They also had fewer teeth, higher caries frequency and more plaque, although no difference was found in the alveolar bone support around their remaining teeth. A positive correlation was found between finger force and oral hygiene. Persons with myotonic dystrophy had a decreased ability to maintain good oral hygiene, possibly due to motoric disability, and they had an increased need of dental hygienic care.