Clinicians’ view on the management of oral health in Parkinson’s disease patients: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background due to numerous motor and non-motor symptoms, dental treatment in patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) can be challenging. Knowledge regarding optimal management of oral health in PD patients is lacking. Aim to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of dentists regarding oral health care for PD patients in the Netherlands. Material and method semi-structured interviews were conducted with (specialized) dentists working with PD patients. A thematic analysis was performed using a framework-based approach. Results ten dentists were interviewed. They reported that dental care in PD patients requires 1) adaptation of timing and length of treatments and consultations, and 2) intensifying preventive measures. Dentists experienced the organization as bureaucratic and difficult. Moreover, differences between being institutionalized or living at home were present. Education and research are needed to improve PD patients’ oral health. The experience level and affinity for treating PD patients positively influences confidence levels of the practitioner. Finally, points of improvement were suggested. Conclusion managing oral health in PD patients is challenging, and interdisciplinary collaboration is needed to overcome difficulties. Reducing the bureaucratic burden and improving knowledge could help and stimulate oral health care providers to treat PD patients more effectively and, consequently, improve their oral health.