If someone you love has Parkinson’s disease, you likely understand the number of symptoms and the ways these symptoms can impact day-to-day life. Chronic pain is among one of the chief complaints, and dental pain is certainly no exception. Here’s 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, weight loss, strokes, and infections that can significantly impair cognitive function. Older people with Parkinson’s are at the highest risk for problems stemming from poor dental hygiene.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care. Danville Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities we provide to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
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 because these individuals often have hypersensitive 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.
Maintaining oral health is essential in the golden years. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Boosting Quality of Life
Proper dental care can enhance a senior with Parkinson’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 prevent tooth decay and pain, thereby boosting overall health and wellbeing. 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.
Seniors with Parkinson’s are often able to maintain a higher quality of life when remaining in their own homes. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional senior home care Danville seniors can trust and rely on. Reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care today to schedule a free in-home consultation.
