Dental Care for People with Parkinson’s Disease in San Francisco

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. The disease can be a challenge in many aspects of life, from everyday tasks to social interactions. That’s why at Itani Dental, we’re committed to being a Parkinson’s-friendly dental practice. We take care to provide a calm and relaxing environment, and our team is equipped to deal with the unique needs of our patients with Parkinson’s.

We understand the importance of maintaining good oral health, and we’re here to help our patients achieve that goal. If you or someone you know is living with Parkinson’s, we hope you’ll give us a call. We’re here to help in any way we can

Dental Issues in Patients with Parkinson’s

Patients with Parkinson’s may have difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene due to the effects of the disease. The most common problems include:

• Dry mouth: A side effect of many Parkinson’s medications is dry mouth, which can lead to increased cavities, gum disease, and infection.
• Trouble swallowing: People with Parkinson’s may have trouble swallowing, which can lead to food and bacteria getting trapped in the teeth.
• Difficulty moving the tongue: The tongue may not move as well in people with Parkinson’s, which can make it hard to keep teeth clean.

Strategies for Improving Dental Care

There are several things that patients with Parkinson’s can do to improve their oral health:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water will help keep the mouth moist and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: A soft toothbrush will be easier on the gums and help prevent irritation.
• Use an electric toothbrush: An electric toothbrush can be helpful for people who have difficulty moving their hands.
• Floss daily: Flossing is important for removing food and bacteria from between the teeth.
• Visit the dentist regularly: Seeing the dentist every six months will help catch any problems early and keep the mouth healthy.

Ensuring a Successful Visit

There are a few things that patients with Parkinson’s can do to make sure their visit to the dentist is successful:

• Make an appointment for a time when you have the most energy.
• Bring someone with you to help with transportation and communication.
• Make sure the dentist knows about your Parkinson’s and any medications you are taking.
• Ask the dentist to use a numbing gel before starting any procedures.

At Itani Dental, we’re here to help our patients with Parkinson’s maintain good oral health. We understand the challenges that come with the disease, and we’re equipped to provide the care and support our patient’s needs. If you or someone you know is living with Parkinson’s, contact us. We’re here to help.