Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be detrimental to your oral health. Both RA and gum disease are accompanied by severe inflammation, which your body uses to protect you from foreign substances like viruses and bacteria. As RA is an autoimmune disease, inflammation occurs despite the absence of foreign bodies. Better dental health may help you reduce your RA symptoms. There has been ongoing research into the relationship between oral health and RA for decades. According to a study conducted at Johns Hopkins, 70% of RA patients have gum disease.  However, only 35% of the general population is affected by gum disease.

The effects of RA

By disregarding the signs and symptoms of RA, you put your oral health at risk. Aside from seriously affecting your health, RA can lead to serious oral health complications, such as:

• In Gingivitis, the gums get swollen and tender because of the disease.
• Periodontitis affects the bones and tissues supporting the teeth.
• Sjögren’s syndrome is caused by inflammatory changes in the salivary glands, which causes tooth decay and dry mouth.
• Loss of motion in the temporomandibular joint: Opening and closing your mouth can be painful when you have RA.
• Oral Infections: Infections of the mouth, such as bacterial and fungal infections.

Bacteria may be at fault

It has been long suspected there is an association between rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease, but only recently has this connection become apparent. According to Dr Konig, certain bacteria in your mouth that cause periodontal disease might also trigger RA.

There have been several cases in which autoimmune diseases have been tied to certain types of oral bacteria. Studies have shown that certain types of bacteria can make people more susceptible to inflammation if they have a history of the disease or genetic markers for it. Several trials have shown that antibiotics are somewhat effective in treating autoimmune diseases. Joint pain symptoms can either be initiated by your oral health or exasperated by it.

Treatment of one condition may improve the other

An investigation at Case Western University found that gum disease treatment effectively improved rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in people with severe forms of the disease. In a study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and gum disease, those treated with gum disease-specific medications did better than those who received RA medication alone. An informed treatment plan should include a physician and a periodontist for people with both gum disease and RA. The act of brushing and flossing can be challenging when you have RA, so consult your doctor for the best technique. Also, get a dental checkup every year to monitor the health of your gums. If you do not have a periodontist, get one with your dentist.

Listed below are some additional tips from the American Dental Association for managing dental care more efficiently:

• Regularly visit your dentist. If your gums need extra care, a professional can spot the signs and refer you to an oral surgeon.
• Put a new spin on your toothbrush.  For better grip, attach a tennis ball or bicycle handle to your brush . A traditional toothbrush may have too narrow of a handle, whereas an electric toothbrush has a wider handle, making it easier to grip. Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day.
• Before you go to sleep, remove your dentures. Then, consult your dentist on how to maintain them.

Book an Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.