Authors : Afsaneh Taghizadehghasemabadi; Reza Mirzaeiebrahimabadi; Seyedehmahrokh Moosavimordghafari; Seyedeh Hana Hosseini; Alireza Sedaghati Jahromi; Pegah Talebiardekani

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 11 - November

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/y5zwn7kk

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4kmzkkx6

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25nov1566

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Abstract : Stroke is a major cause of long-term disability across the world, requiring thorough rehabilitation strategies. This review discusses the combination of oral health management and pharmacotherapy in stroke neurorehabilitation. We cover the neurological basis of stroke recovery, including the concepts of neuroplasticity, mechanisms of motor recovery, and neuromodulation approaches, as well as the frequently neglected oral health problems associated with stroke survivors, including dysphagia, poor oral health, and risk of aspiration pneumonia. An interprofessional model between neurologists and dental professionals is presented as a way to enhance patient outcomes. Evidence shows that the collaborative provision of oral care can help minimize complications (e.g., pneumonia) and improve quality of life in stroke patients. Key pharmaceutical therapeutic interventions to improve post-stroke recovery (including neuroplasticity-enhancing drugs) and their oral health implications are also summarized. The conclusion presents the importance of the role of a neurologist- dentist to work in a complementary manner, incorporating oral health protocols and judicious pharmacotherapy in order to help provide optimal rehabilitation outcomes in patients with stroke.

Keywords : Stroke Rehabilitation, Oral Health, Neuroplasticity, Dysphagia, Interprofessional Collaboration, Pharmacotherapy.

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