There are many professionals who can help with dental issues and oral
hygiene:
-
dentist - you
should visit a dentist regularly, preferably one who has experience of
Parkinson's. Normally, visits should be made every six months but your
dentist will be able to advise you if you need to visit more often. It is
important to act upon any dental problems that arise promptly so that they
can be treated quickly. Delay can lead to conditions worsening and
possible anxiety or distress. Ask your dentist for advice on cleaning
techniques and aids, such as floss, an angled or electric toothbrush, and
on other ways of preventing disease from developing in the mouth. If
possible find a dentist with specially trained nurses, rather like dental
hygienists. They will be more experienced in explaining and managing oral
hygiene. If it is difficult to get to the dentist, ask your doctor if they
can recommend a dentist who will visit your home. Always tell your dentist
about any medications you are taking
-
dental hygienist –
hygienists are trained in oral care and hygiene and can provide practical
advice for day-to-day care of your teeth. They can also clean the teeth by
removing plaque and calculus
-
doctor - always
seek advice from your doctor, as well as your dentist, on any dental
problems you experience. Treatment may vary from person to person and in
some cases your doctor may be able to adjust your medications
-
dietician – a
dietician will be able to offer advice on a healthy, well-balanced diet,
so that you can minimise your intake of food that can be harmful to your teeth
and gums.
These professionals will be able to advise on
problems related to the teeth and mouth for those with Parkinson’s, in
particular:
Dysphagia
Your doctor may refer you to a speech and language therapist for advice on dysphagia.
Treatment is vital to prevent serious problems from occurring, such as
aspiration (which can lead to chest infections) and choking.
Dry mouth
Tell your doctor if you have a dry mouth because they may be able to adjust
your medication. Make your dentist aware and, together with your doctor or
pharmacist, they should be able to advise on suitable saliva substitutes.
Rinsing with mouthwash, taking frequent sips of water, sucking on ice chips or
using a mouth spray may help. Caffeine, soft drinks, alcohol and tobacco, which
all dry the mouth, should also be avoided.
Drooling
A speech and language therapist should be able to advise on ways to overcome
or minimise drooling, but for more advice, see drooling. In severe cases,
injections of botulinum toxin may be required at intervals by a skilled
practitioner.
Difficulty controlling dentures
Your dentist should be able to advise on ways to improve control and
minimise any problems with dentures.
