The impact of motor neurone disease on oral health: a scoping review

Objective: To identify current evidence on oral health-related quality of life in people with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), as well as identify barriers to oral health and care, and establish priorities for future research.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted. Electronic databases and grey literature sources were searched from 2000 to 2024. Articles discussing oral health in adults with MND were included. Findings were supplemented by stakeholder consultation with people with MND, caregivers, clinicians, and researchers.

Results: Fourteen articles met inclusion criteria, comprising eight cross-sectional studies, one prospective quality improvement project, one single center observational and four review articles. Five key themes emerged: dental status and oral hygiene activities, orofacial function, secretion management, service delivery and Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Studies indicated that MND negatively impacts oral health through impaired ability to perform oral hygiene and altered orofacial functioning. Only one study examined oral health-related quality of life. Stakeholder consultation highlighted additional concerns including challenges with service access, the impact of MND on oral health, and difficulties maintaining oral hygiene due to physical limitations.

Conclusions: Oral health remains an under-researched area in MND care despite its potential impact on quality of life and overall wellbeing. Future research priorities should include investigating relationships between oral health and MND outcomes, improving service delivery models, and increasing dental professional awareness. Active involvement of people with MND in research design and implementation is essential for developing effective interventions.