Dentists can tailor dental care plans to accommodate the specific needs of people with Parkinson’s.

While Parkinson‘s symptoms can complicate dental care, oral diseases are largely preventable. Regular visits to the dentist can help maintain good oral and dental hygiene.

Why should I have a dentist on my care team?

Having a dentist on your healthcare team is crucial when you have Parkinson’s because the disease can significantly impact your oral health. Parkinson’s can cause symptoms like dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, and tremors, which can make daily oral hygiene challenging. Poor dental hygiene can lead to issues such as cavities, gum disease, and infections, which can affect your overall health and nutrition. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help prevent these problems and ensure that any issues are addressed promptly. Additionally, a dentist can provide guidance on managing oral health challenges specific to Parkinson’s, such as using specialised toothbrushes or techniques to make brushing easier.

Key Statistics

  • Nearly 50% of people with Parkinson’s experience difficulty maintaining daily oral hygiene due to motor symptoms like tremors and rigidity, which can hinder brushing and flossing routines.
  • Poor dental hygiene in Parkinson’s patients is linked to increased risks of stroke, cognitive decline, and weight loss, underscoring the importance of regular dental care for overall health.
  • Up to 50% of individuals with Parkinson’s face challenges accessing or receiving adequate dental care, often due to overlooked symptoms and limited awareness among caregivers and providers.
  • Regular dental visits and tailored occupational therapy can significantly improve oral health outcomes, helping prevent oral diseases that are otherwise common in Parkinson’s patient.

How do I access dental care?

It’s advisable to explore all available pathways to find the support that best suits your needs. Look to:

  • getting a GP referral to someone with Parkinson‘s experience
  • your state-based Parkinson’s organisation for advice on local services to access
  • private health to see what is covered in relation to consultations and expenses
  • DVA, NDIS or My Aged Care plan supports.

Infosheet under review

References

  • Parkinson’s Foundation. (n.d.). Dental health in PD. Retrieved from https://www.parkinson.org/library/fact-sheets/dental-health
  • Parkinson Canada. (2025). Dental care and Parkinson’s fact sheet. Retrieved from https://www.parkinson.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Dental-care-and-Parkinsons-Fact-Sheet_2025.pdf
  • Stanford Medicine. (n.d.). Oral health and Parkinson’s disease. Retrieved from https://med.stanford.edu/parkinsons/treating-living/oral-health.html
  • Parkinson’s Australia. (n.d.). Dental & oral health. Retrieved from https://www.parkinsons.org.au/information-hub/dental-oral-health/
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