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Abstract

Background: Parkinson's disease is one the most widespread illnesses in the world, affecting up to 1% of the whole population above 60 years. It is also considered the most frequent movement disorder and the second most common degenerative disease of the central nervous system. The main goal of prosthodontists should be to guarantee a good quality of life for patients ill with Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods:The PubMed database was used to search the literature published from January 1, 2015 until February 20, 2020. The aim was: 1) To critically review the literature on dental prosthetic treatments that can be done for patients, who have Parkinson's disease; 2) To analyze what is the best time to assign the treatment; 3) To find out how it affects the patients quality of life. Analysis of literature was performed using the PRISMA analysis protocol. Articles were identified in both PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. In each of the studies, we analyzed information for: Prosthetic dental treatment options for patients with PD, most successful approaches to the treatment and factors ensuring good life-quality afterwards.Results: 15 studies were included in the systematic review, according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. It is suggested, that the best way to restore PD patients' masticatory function, is by using implant-supported fixed prosthesis. Also, removable dentures are a viable restorative option for PD patients, although, reduced biting forces and lower jaw movements need to be taken into consideration. Moreover, before any prosthetic dental treatment, the doctor has to be informed about the patients' medication consumption time, to prevent the occurrence of tremors during the visit. In addition, the most viable treatment plan should always be chosen according to patients' quality of life as one of the main factors. For this reason, it is concluded, that non removable restorations increase the patients' quality of life significantly more than removable ones. Conclusions:Parkinson's disease affects not only mastication, but also swallowing and verbal functions. In order to improve patients' quality of life, these functions need to be rehabilitated by using implant-fixed dental prosthesis as the best option. Because of functional impairment, prosthodontists should pay attention to keeping the patient in vertical sitting position, strictly control salivation, and also assess patients' medication intake time. Moreover, when helping the patients to clearly understand the treatment plan and maintain good oral hygiene, caregivers' assistance is needed. In addition, during aftercare, an electric toothbrush is recommended, since PD patients have trouble sustaining repetitive motions. This is the best way to ensure a successful prosthetic treatment.