WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT PARKINSON’S DISEASE

Several early sources, including the Bible, an Egyptian papyrus, and Galen’s writings, describe early symptoms resembling those of Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease, or Parkinsonism, is usually defined as the “primary” or most common form, with no external identifiable cause, or is there??  To date, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but can we prevent it?

Many studies show that inflammation appears to contribute to Parkinson’s disease.

Inflammation and oxidation appear to contribute to the progression of the disease, just as they do in heart disease, diabetes, cancer and aging.

Periodontal disease is a bacterial induced, chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the connective tissue and bone supporting the teeth, which can lead to not only tooth loss, but increases the C-Reactive protein levels in the body, which are markers for inflammation.

In knowing this, we realize that oral health is not a cosmetic issue! Evidence links poor oral health to serious systemic illnesses, including diabetes, stroke, hypertension, myocardial infarction, aspiration pneumonia and exacerbates the progression of Parkinson’s disease.

Inflammation is truly a mouth-body condition! We can minimize its deteriorating effects on the brain, which are associated with Parkinson’s, by reducing the C-Reactive protein levels.

Why is oral health so important? Brushing and flossing are crucial activities that affect our health and decrease inflammation in the body! We can minimize the deteriorating effects of inflammation, which are associated with Parkinson’s disease by practicing good oral health. In fact, dental care is just as important for health and daily routine as taking medications and getting physical exercise. A healthy mouth helps people eat well, avoid pain and tooth loss, and feel good about themselves and reduces inflammation in the body.

The California Dental Board created the RDHAP to deliver quality dental preventive dental hygiene services to those that don’t have access to a traditional dental office and are the vital link between the patient and the dentist.

Due to the nature of Parkinson’s disease, outings for a PWP are sometimes more frightening than enjoyable for them. Assurance that your loved one will experience preventive dental care, in a familiar setting, without the challenges of leaving your home or residence can be done by contacting a licensed RDH, RDHAP (Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice) who can deliver quality preventive dental hygiene services, oral assessments, preventative strategies and education to those who don’t have easy access to a traditional dental office.

Licensed RDH, RDHAPs are dedicated to helping people improve and maintain their oral health. Betty Anna is a Periodontal Hygienist, in an alternative practice setting and specializes in the prevention of periodontal disease and tooth loss.  She can help her patients smile, speak and eat with confidence of having their own natural teeth. However, your responsibilities are:

• Brush every day.
• Floss every day.
• Regular Dental Hygiene Visits!

For more information visit the WELLNESS VILLAGE on our website.