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Dynamic Digital Biomarkers of Motor and Cognitive Function in Parkinson's Disease
Published on: July 24, 2019
Dentistry and Parkinson's disease: learnings from two case reports
Shazia Kaka1, Helen Lane2, Emily Sherwin2
1Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Special Care Dentistry, Great Maze Pond, London, UK. shazia_k17@hotmail.com.
British Dental Journal
|July 14, 2019
Summary
Maintaining oral health in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients is crucial for their quality of life. Individualized dental care plans, considering PD progression and patient needs, are essential for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gerontology
- Dental Medicine
Background:
- Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder affecting older adults.
- PD presents with motor, non-motor, and behavioral symptoms impacting overall health, including oral health.
- Maintaining oral health is vital for the comfort, function, and quality of life of individuals with PD.
Observation:
- Oral health is significantly impacted by the diverse symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
- Effective oral care requires a comprehensive, individualized approach tailored to each patient's stage of PD.
- Factors such as treatment tolerance, prostheses, support systems, and patient preferences must be considered.
Findings:
- A multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals is crucial for managing oral health in PD patients.
- Dentists must employ various techniques and skills, making reasonable adjustments to accommodate PD-related challenges.
- Case reports illustrate the importance of adapting dental care strategies based on the progression of Parkinson's disease.
Implications:
- Optimizing oral health can enhance the quality of life and well-being for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
- The findings underscore the need for specialized dental training and protocols for managing neurodegenerative conditions.
- Integrated care models are essential to address the complex oral health needs of aging populations with chronic neurological disorders.
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