BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease (PD) has a negative effect on oral health and orofacial function, but the subjective experience of orofacial symptoms and their impact on the quality of life is not fully investigated. In addition, knowledge of how to improve the subjective oral symptoms is lacking.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the self-reported orofacial function and oral health in patients with PD. Furthermore, to investigate the effect of interventions for improvement of oral hygiene and function on oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL).

METHODS: A randomised controlled study with delayed intervention was conducted in 29 patients with moderate to advanced PD. Patients were instructed in a standardised exercise program for the jaw and orofacial muscles and given an individualized oral hygiene program. The effect on self-reported orofacial function and OHRQoL was measured after 2 and 4 months using the Nordic Orofacial Test - Screening (NOT-S), the oral health impact profile (OHIP-14), self-reported drooling score and subjective mastication ability.

RESULTS: Self-reported oral health and function before the intervention was significantly correlated to the severity and duration of PD. The NOT-S and drooling score were significantly improved by the interventions after 2 months and the OHIP-14 after 4 months.

CONCLUSION: The interventions improve the self-reported orofacial function and OHRQoL. These simple interventions can be implemented in the allied multidisciplinary healthcare surrounding the PD patient.