Comparative Study of Patients with Periodontal and Parkinson's Disease: Clinical and Salivary Aspects.

Introduction: This study investigates the severity of periodontal disease in patients with Parkinson's disease by comparing clinical and salivary aspects. Materials and Methods: A total of 31 patients were included: 15 with periodontal disease (control group) and 16 with periodontal disease and Parkinson's disease (study group). Demographic data, periodontal parameters (plaque index, tartar index, bleeding index, probing depth, periodontal pocket index) and salivary parameters included viscosity, pH, and buffering capacity were analyzed. Results: Patients with Parkinson's disease exhibited slightly lower mean values for plaque accumulation, bleeding on probing, and tartar index compared with the control group, though these differences were not statistically significant. In contrast, salivary parameters, particularly buffering capacity, showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between the groups. Conclusions: Parkinson's disease impacts periodontal health. Early intervention and integrated care strategies may help mitigate oral health deterioration in Parkinson's patients.