Improving Dental Care with Parkinson’s Disease

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Dental Care and Parkinsons Disease

If someone you love has Parkinson’s disease, then you likely understand the number of symptoms and the ways in which these symptoms can impact day-to-day life. Chronic pain is among one of the chief complaints, and dental pain is certainly no exception. Today, the Jefferson County elder care specialists from Home Care Assistance are going to share some information about dental pain and the importance of good oral health for seniors with Parkinson’s.

The Effects of Parkinson’s on Dental Health

According to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, dental health is often overlooked in those who have Parkinson’s disease since so much effort is focused on other, more prominent symptoms. However, poor dental health can lead to physical complications such as poor nutrition and weight loss, strokes, and infections that can significantly impair cognitive function. Older Parkinson’s patients are at the highest risk for problems stemming from poor dental hygiene.

Finding the Right Dentist

Dental exams can be difficult when it comes to Parkinson’s disease due in part to the classic tremors, but also due to the fact that these individuals often have hyper-sensitive nervous systems and are especially sensitive to pain. Dentists who specialize in sleep apnea and other breathing-related sleep disorders are best suited to care for seniors who have Parkinson’s disease.

Improving Quality of Life

Proper dental care can improve a Parkinson’s patient’s overall quality of life, as well. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease should seek dental care more often than others because things like grinding teeth, a higher concentration of acid in the saliva, more saliva volume, and muscle rigidity affecting the jaw and joints, can cause significant issues. Seeking the right dental care from the right dentist can help prevent tooth decay and pain, thereby improving patients’ overall health and well-being.

Though there are breakthroughs in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease occurring regularly, many of the best treatments aim to relieve the effects of the disease itself. Proper dental care is essential for preventing pain, maintaining good nutrition, and preventing further progression of the disease.

Care for a Senior Loved One

If you are interested in learning more about care for seniors with Parkinson’s disease, reach out to Home Care Assistance. We are a trusted Jefferson County Parkinson’s care provider offering flexible hourly and live-in care schedules and highly trained Parkinson’s caregivers who can assist with personal care activities such as brushing teeth, bathing and toileting, as well as other household tasks such as cooking and cleaning. To request more information or a complimentary, no-obligation consultation, call 303-987-5992.

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