There are many conditions that can impact how you manage your oral health. Epilepsy, is one of them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1.2% of individuals in the United States in 2015 had active epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects the nerves and is characterized by reoccurring seizures that occur unpredictably. Epilepsy may be genetically inherited, or may be caused due to a head injury or medical conditions impacting the brain such as a tumor, meningitis, or stroke for example. This condition can also impact individuals differently, as there are many different types of seizures.
According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals who experience generalized seizures may have symptoms including temporary confusion, eye blinking, staring, sudden collapse, uncontrollable jerking, stiffening limbs, or loss of consciousness.
Epilepsy poses some significant oral health risks. The tongue, teeth, and other parts of the mouth can be potentially harmed during generalized seizures during uncontrollable movements. In addition, individuals with epilepsy may be treated by their doctor with anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), which may come with oral side effects. For instance, overgrowth of the gums (gingival hyperplasia), and dry mouth (xerostomia). Your dentist can make treatment recommendations on how to manage gum overgrowth and dry mouth, as well as may propose the use of a dental night guard to help prevent trauma in the case of a seizure overnight.
Be sure to inform your dentist if you have epilepsy and of any medications you are taking. Along with your medical doctors, your dentist can help you manage epilepsy and a healthy smile.
This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.
References:
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/managing-epilepsy-and-oral-health
http://med.stanford.edu/content/dam/sm-news/images/2022/04/epilepsy1.jpg
