PROSTHETIC REHABILITATION OF A PARKINSON’S PATIENT: A CASE REPORT

*Dr. Nivedita M.R., Dr. Sanjayagouda B. Patil, Dr. Kiran Kumar H. S., Dr. Swetha D., Dr. A. H. Shoeab Khan

ABSTRACT

Parkinson's disease also known as Paralysis Agitans, is a progressive neurological condition that impairs balance, muscular coordination, movement and other non- motor abilities. Adults in their late middle or advanced years exhibit it. Tremors, bradykinesia, muscle rigidity, postural instability, gait abnormalities are its defining characteristics. These physical manifestations of Parkinson's disease pose difficulties for day-to-day activities including dental care. For a significant portion of dental hygiene and home care programs muscle-eye coordination, digital dexterity, and tongue -cheek-lip control are necessary. As this disease progresses the patient‟s ability to maintain his oral hygiene is hampered and chances of tooth loss are more. Hence these patients need more help from the dentists and the care givers. Tremors caused by Parkinson's disease can make dentist appointments difficult because, anxiety and fear exacerbate the symptoms. The duration of time that a person responds best to medication will decrease as Parkinson's disease (PD) worsens, making shorter visits more practical and beneficial. These patients find it difficult to open their mouth for extended period of time. It‟s important that patient should calm throughout the procedure. During dental treatment ensuring a stress-free and peaceful environment is crucial. Here is one of such cases where a completely edentulous Parkinson‟s patient successfully treated with an upper and lower complete removable denture.

Keywords: Parkinsons disease, prosthetic rehabilitation, neurological disorder, complete denture, neurodegenerative illness.