People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at higher risk of gum disease, and gum disease tends to be more severe in those with RA. Find out why that is and what you can do to protect yourself.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
When you think about ways to manage arthritis, brushing your teeth probably doesn’t come to mind. But maybe it should. People with rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, are more likely to have gum disease than those without RA. And gum disease tends to be worse in people with RA.
So why is that? Scientists aren’t sure, but they do have a few theories. One is inflammation, which is involved in both diseases. inflammation makes joints swell and also makes gums swell and bleed.
Another possible culprit: bacteria. Researchers have found that at least one type of bacteria that causes gum disease also makes arthritis worse by speeding up bone and cartilage damage.
Genes may be to blame as well. People with gum disease and ra share at least one gene that may play a role in both conditions.
people with ra are also more prone to dry mouth, which can contribute to tooth decay.
And certain RA medications can increase the risk of mouth sores. All the more reason to pay extra attention to your oral health if you have RA. That includes brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day.
If stiff joints make it hard for you to hold and control the brush, try using a lighter, child-sized electric toothbrush. Floss daily. To make it easier on your hands, use a floss holder or floss pick.
Look for a mouthwash that’s “antibacterial,” “anti-plaque,” or “antimicrobial.” these products kill bacteria that cause gum disease.
To protect your joints and teeth, ditch the cigarettes. Smoking increases the risk of both gum disease and RA and may make treatments for both conditions less effective.
Get dental check-ups at least twice a year. If you notice problems like bleeding or swollen gums, see a dentist as soon as possible. Research suggests that treating gum disease may improve symptoms of ra like pain and stiffness. And it can help prevent tooth loss. Just two more reasons to keep you smiling.