Dental Issues after Stroke-Why ?:
A stroke is a medical condition in which poor blood flow to the brain causes cell death. This can lead to a variety of physical and cognitive impairments, including dental problems. Dental issues after stroke are common due to several factors, including:
- Reduced saliva production: A stroke can damage the salivary glands, which produce saliva. Saliva helps to keep the mouth moist and clean, and it also contains enzymes that help to break down food and kill bacteria. Reduced saliva production can lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
- Swallowing difficulties: Many stroke survivors have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). This can make it difficult to brush teeth and clean the mouth effectively.
- Physical impairment: A stroke can cause physical impairments that make it difficult to brush teeth and floss, such as weakness, paralysis, and poor coordination.
- Cognitive impairment: A stroke can also cause cognitive impairments that make it difficult to remember to brush teeth, floss, and keep appointments with the dentist.
Dental issues can have a significant impact on the quality of life of stroke survivors. They can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty eating and speaking. They can also increase the risk of serious complications, such as aspiration pneumonia.
Common Dental Issues after Stroke-
The most common dental issues after stroke include:
- Tooth decay: Tooth decay is a breakdown of the tooth enamel caused by bacteria. It is the most common dental problem in both children and adults. Stroke survivors are at increased risk of tooth decay due to dry mouth, swallowing difficulties, and physical and cognitive impairments.
- Gum disease: Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. Stroke survivors are at increased risk of gum disease due to dry mouth, swallowing difficulties, and physical and cognitive impairments.
- Thrush: Thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth and throat. It is common in people with weakened immune systems, such as stroke survivors.
- Root decay: Root decay is a breakdown of the root of the tooth. It is common in people with dry mouth and gum disease.
- Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a condition in which the mouth does not produce enough saliva. It can cause a variety of problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty speaking and swallowing.
- Dysphagia: Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing. It is common in stroke survivors and can make it difficult to brush their teeth and clean their mouths effectively.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth and Mouth after Stroke-
There are many things you can do to take care of your teeth and mouth and minimize dental issues after a stroke, including:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth once a day. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
- Use a mouthwash. Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can identify and treat any dental problems early on.
If you have difficulty brushing your teeth or flossing, ask your dentist or hygienist for tips. They can also teach you how to use adaptive dental hygiene tools, such as electric toothbrushes and water flossers.
If you have a dry mouth, there are many things you can do to relieve it, such as:
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water is the best choice, but other fluids, such as unsweetened tea and juice, can also be helpful.
- Suck on sugar-free hard candy or chew sugar-free gum. This can help to stimulate saliva production.
- Use a saliva substitute. Saliva substitutes are available in the form of sprays, gels, and lozenges. They can help to keep your mouth moist and reduce discomfort.
- If you have difficulty swallowing, talk to your doctor or speech-language pathologist. They can teach you techniques to help you swallow safely and effectively.
Dental Treatment after Stroke-
Dental treatment is generally safe for stroke survivors. However, it is important to talk to your doctor and dentist before having any dental procedures. They can assess your risk of complications and recommend the best course of treatment.
If you have any dental problems, it is important to have them treated promptly. This will help to prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.
Tips for Caregivers-
If you are a caregiver for a stroke survivor, there are many things you can do to help them take care of their teeth and mouth and avoid dental issues after stroke, including:
- Help them to brush their teeth and floss. If they are unable to brush their teeth or floss on their own, you can help them. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Help them to use a mouthwash. If they have difficulty using a mouthwash on their own, you can help them. Be sure to use a mouthwash that is alcohol-free and does not contain any harsh chemicals.
- Take them to their dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Stroke survivors need to see their dentist regularly, even if they have difficulty brushing their teeth and flossing. Their dentist can identify and treat any dental problems early on.
- Help them to maintain a healthy diet. A healthy diet can help to improve oral health and overall health. Be sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in their diet. Limit sugary drinks and snacks.
- Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids. Drinking plenty of fluids can help to prevent dry mouth, which is a common problem among stroke survivors. Water is the best choice, but other fluids, such as unsweetened tea and juice, can also be helpful.
Conclusion-
Dental issues are common among stroke survivors, but they can be prevented and treated with proper care.
Additional Tips-
If you are a stroke survivor or caregiver, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of dental problems. These include:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Dry mouth
- If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to see your dentist right away.
There are a number of resources available to help stroke survivors and caregivers learn more about dental health. The American Stroke Association, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, and Stroke Association are all good places to start.
References-
Here are some more resources for any interested.
- Oral Health and Stroke
American Stroke Association (2023)
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/STROKEAHA.111.628198
- Dental Health for people with disabilities
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2023).
- Looking after your mouth and teeth
Stroke Association. (2023).
https://www.stroke.org.uk/effects-of-stroke/looking-after-your-mouth-and-teeth-oral-hygiene
NOTE : This article was researched and written by Dr. Shagufta Dalvi, a Pediatric Dentist who suffered a stroke in 2015 when she was 25 years old. She is a member of our Support Group and on the way to recovery.
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* Be fast – Stroke Symptoms in English with Videos of Actual Strokes
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