Open AccessExploring factors influencing complete denture management of patient with Myasthenia Gravis
Author(s) -
Savvas N. Kamalakidis,
Georgios Papaemmanouil,
Vassiliki Anastassiadou
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
balkan journal of dental medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2738-0807
pISSN - 2335-0245
DOI - 10.2478/bjdm-2020-0019
Subject(s) - medicine , edentulism , myasthenia gravis , rehabilitation , dentistry , prosthesis , dentition , oral health , physical therapy , surgery
Background/Aim: The purpose of this literature review and case report was to highlight the oral symptoms and the pathophysiology of Myasthenia Gravis (MG). MG is an autoimmune, antibody-mediated neuromuscular disorder. It is characterized by fluctuating fatigability and weakness affecting ocular, bulbar and (proximal) limb skeletal muscles. Case report: The case of an edentulous 72-year-old female patient with MG, and in need of removable prostheses was reported. The dental management of a complete denture wearer with MG required special attention and treatment protocols, as described in the present case report. Conclusions: Dental treatment, especially complete denture rehabilitation, of patients diagnosed with MG presents a challenge to the oral health care provider. Clinicians must be aware of the patients' health status in order to preserve their natural dentition. Implant-supported overdentures must be the treatment of choice in cases of edentulism coupled with MG. In cases where a complete denture is the treatment option, the prosthesis should be placed in the zone of minimum conflict (neutral zone) for optimal neuromuscular coordination.