Dentist phobia

[Lili986]

Hi, still under investigation for ataxia. I used to be fine with going to the dentist before ataxia. But now I have dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and dysarthria (difficulty speaking), and I’m scared of going to the dentist because I easily choke or vomit. Do dentists know how to deal with patients with dysphagia? What kind of toothbrush/toothpaste helps with dysphagia?

[LuisRodicioRodicio]

Hi Lili986!

These are our experiences with a PSP patient with dysphagia and dysarthria hoping could be useful on your situation:

"As Kevin_1 said: “Get as much dentistry done as possible. It is highly likely that your loved one will eventually have difficulty opening their mouth. If their teeth are good then you won't be facing full anaesthetics for a tooth extraction, or fillings”.Over time the cleaning of teeth with an electric brush becomes very difficult. Rinse the mouth is also a challenge presenting a tendency to swallow the liquid generating coughs and choking.

When the classic tooth cleaning system fails we have adopted a very soft bristle

brush (for surgery, brand VITIS) and a special toothpaste for the care of the gums

that produces little foam. To this paste without foam we add a little paste

containing Chlorhexidine.

To clean the mouth of pasta we have discarded the brushes that produce a jet of

water under pressure because, very often, they produce coughs and choking.

hug and luck.

Luis

[wobblybee]

😬 It’s the lying back that triggers my symptoms, it brings on vertigo and nausea.

[Klutzy]

I don't know about dentists in the UK, since I'm in the US, but is there a way the dentist could put you under, like with anesthsiasia? I don't have the trouble swallowing, but since my symptoms originally became noticeable 5 yeara ago, my tongue moves on its own and sometimes rolls in my mouth when my mouth is open. I only discovered it as a fluke since I don't feel it. I've been putting off the dentist for that reason.

[Lili986 in reply to Klutzy]

I'm just scared about going to the dentist. My regular dentist says dysphagia isn't a concern but I reckon it would be. I have a hard time just brushing my teeth!

[Klutzy]

I can understand your fear. Maybe they can either suction your mouth more and/or have you spit out into the dentist bowl, so you don't have to worry about swallowing. Have you asked your dentist if there is special procedures they can do?

Sometimes dentists offer headsets, so you can listen to calming music during your appointment. I wish I could help you more, but I have not experienced that.

[Lili986]

It'll be okay. I think I'm just overthinking it.