Oral Health and Dental Health Care Experiences of Patients From the Netherlands With Parkinson's Disease: A Qualitative Study.

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease patients have poorer oral health than their healthy peers. Insight into their own experiences is vital for improving dental care.

OBJECTIVE

To better understand the experiences of Parkinson's disease patients' with their oral health and dental care.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Eleven semistructured interviews with Parkinson's disease patients from the Netherlands were conducted. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns.

RESULTS

Participants' narratives revealed challenges in accessing dental treatment, primarily due to motor and communication difficulties. They also highlighted organisational barriers, such as appointment scheduling and awareness of care practitioners about Parkinson's disease patients' oral health. Furthermore, they expressed the urgent need for Parkinson's disease-specific dental education to (dental) care practitioners and research initiatives that focus on Parkinson's disease patients' oral health and dental care.

CONCLUSION

Parkinson's disease patients' experiences highlight the need for tailored care interventions and improvements in dental care systems.