Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient with Parkinson's Disease — what is the most difficult aspect of dental self-care for them?
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Correct answer: A. Brushing teeth and flossing
Brushing teeth and flossing (A). Parkinson's Disease is characterized by:
• Resting tremor: pill-rolling tremor that impairs fine motor control
• Rigidity: muscle stiffness affecting arm and hand movement
• Bradykinesia: slowness of movement
• Postural instability
These symptoms make precise hand movements (tooth brushing, especially flossing) extremely difficult. Patients often cannot hold a toothbrush steadily or perform the dexterity required for flossing.
• Recommendations: electric toothbrush (larger handle, vibration assists), floss picks or water flosser instead of traditional floss, dental hygiene aids with modified handles.
• Other dental concerns: xerostomia from medications (levodopa), dysphagia, aspiration risk, dental trauma from falls.
• Resting tremor: pill-rolling tremor that impairs fine motor control
• Rigidity: muscle stiffness affecting arm and hand movement
• Bradykinesia: slowness of movement
• Postural instability
These symptoms make precise hand movements (tooth brushing, especially flossing) extremely difficult. Patients often cannot hold a toothbrush steadily or perform the dexterity required for flossing.
• Recommendations: electric toothbrush (larger handle, vibration assists), floss picks or water flosser instead of traditional floss, dental hygiene aids with modified handles.
• Other dental concerns: xerostomia from medications (levodopa), dysphagia, aspiration risk, dental trauma from falls.
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