Patterns of the Oro-facial Neural Manifestations in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Admitted into Hospitals in Kerman (Iran)

Aims: Studies have shown an increase in the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in recent years. This medical condition exhibits motor-sensory manifestations in the oral cavity and face. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of these manifestations in patients with MS in Kerman Province, Iran, in 2013. Methods: A total of 100 patients with MS, based on McDonald’s 2010 Diagnostic Criteria, were selected by simple sampling technique for the purpose of the present cross-sectional study. All the subjects received treatment in the Department of Neurology in Kerman Shafa Hospital. Results: Eighty patients were female and the mean age of the subjects was 36.4 years; 33% and 43% of the subjects had dysphagia and a feeling of an unpleasant taste in the oral cavity or a history of facial pains, respectively. Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, it is recommended that dentists take account of the oral problems of patients with MS due to the sensory problems of these patients.