Those with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) know it can affect the joints in their hands, wrists and knees. But their teeth? Now, that’s a new one. Gum disease and tooth loss are more prevalent in people who have RA, according to a study conducted at the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center. 

Effects Of RA On Oral Health

When you neglect the signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis, the condition can cause you to develop serious oral issues like:

• Sjögren’s syndrome. This autoimmune condition damages the salivary glands through inflammation. As a result, it can lead to tooth decay, dry mouth, difficulty eating and tooth loss.
• Damage to the temporomandibular joint or TMJ. Inflammation formed along the tendons can make it painful or difficult to open your mouth. 
• Bacterial infections of the mouth. This is a concern for patients who take immunosuppressive medications. Symptoms of an infection include swelling around your tooth or jaw, severe pain, fever and swollen nodes around your jaw.
• Fungal infections. You’ll notice this happening when a white coating or clumping begins to develop on the tongue or around the inside of your cheeks.
• Oral ulcers. People taking methotrexate should look out for this dental issue. Folic acid supplementations can help with this. 

How To Stay On Top Of Your Oral Health

Since RA increases the risk of several dental problems, it’s crucial to establish good oral health habits such as:

• Following a regular cleaning routine. Make sure to brush twice a day for two minutes and floss daily.
• Using the right tools. If holding a regular toothbrush is difficult or painful, opt for a wide-handled electric toothbrush instead. Also, ditch traditional flossing and choose Curaprox brushes which require only one hand to use. They’re made of polyester filaments so they don’t harbour bacteria or retain water. They’re available at our Garden City location.
• Stopping activities that can worsen oral issues like smoking and chewing tobacco. 
• Visiting your dentist on a regular basis and informing them about your RA as well as other dental problems. 

At Dental Image Therapy Centres, we can help alleviate any side effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Look out for you at two convenient Winnipeg locations situated at St. Vital Centre or Garden City Shopping Centre. During your dental checkup, we’ll monitor the condition of your teeth and gums and administer the proper treatment to relieve any pain or discomfort.