Dental Implants: A Guide for Seniors

Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Risk of Gum Disease: What You Need to Know

27 September 2016 by Jimmy Carter

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition which can increase the risk of you developing gum disease, which can result in swelling, pain, bleeding and bad breath. Below is a guide to all you need to know about the link between rheumatoid arthritis and gum disease.

Risk Factors

Below is a list of risk factors which can increase the likelihood that someone with rheumatoid arthritis will develop gum disease.

• Dry mouth: Some medications which are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis can cause a reduction in saliva levels. Having a dry mouth creates the ideal environment for bacteria to grow. These bacteria will lead to an increased build-up of plaque and tartar and can cause irritation to your gums.

• Compromised immune system: Rheumatoid arthritis can compromise your immune system and affect your bodies ability to control and fight bacteria. If you have a compromised immune system, bacteria in your mouth may overwhelm your immune system resulting in inflammation of the gums.

• Pain and swelling in your jaw and hand joints: If rheumatoid arthritis causes pain and swelling of the joints in your jaw and hands, this can make cleaning your teeth extremely difficult. You may have trouble holding your toothbrush or opening your mouth wide enough to properly clean all of your teeth. This can cause a build up of plaque and tartar below your gum line and lead to inflammation and infection.

Preventing the development of gum disease

Below are some steps you can take to help to minimise the risk that you will develop gum disease:

• Change your diet: Refined carbohydrates are easily broken down in your mouth, which means they are the ideal foodstuff for oral bacteria to feed on. If you diet contains a large amount of refined carbohydrates such as white grain or breakfast cereals, you should consider replacing them with whole grain and unprocessed food. Whole grain and unprocessed foods contain complex carbohydrates which do not break down until they reach your stomach.

• Apply fluoride gel: If you are struggling to properly use a toothbrush, your dentist may prescribe a fluoride gel. This gel can be easily rubbed onto the teeth. This helps to form a protective layer over your teeth, which will help to keep them clean and prevent erosion of the tooth enamel.

If you have any concerns about your oral health, you should contact a dentist today. They will be able to carry out an assessment of your teeth and gums before carrying out any necessary treatment.

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