Peer-review started: September 29, 2016
First decision: October 31, 2016
Revised: February 22, 2017
Accepted: March 13, 2017
Article in press: March 13, 2017
Published online: June 28, 2017
Processing time: 271 Days and 8.2 Hours
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is an idiopathic progressive neurological disorder characterised by resting tremor, restrictions in mobility and muscular rigidity that can lead to problems in maintaining oral health. Here we report a case where crown lengthening surgeries were successfully performed in a PD patient for complete oral rehabilitation. Certain special considerations that are required before and during periodontal surgery in such patients are also elucidated. Often dentists and PD patients are reluctant to embark on complex dental procedures resulting in a compromised outcome. However, early intervention along with proper education and motivation of these patients can aid in achieving satisfactory results.
Core tip: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. Diagnosis of PD is often made after careful history taking, physical examination and observing a positive continued response to dopaminergic medications. Laboratory tests and imaging studies are not used routinely. The problems encountered during the dental treatment of a PD patient include the patient’s inability to keep his mouth open, uncontrolled movements of head and tongue and excessive salivation. This case report lays emphasis on various considerations that are required while doing periodontal surgery in these patients.