Do You Live with an Autoimmune Condition?
Living with an autoimmune condition can feel like navigating a complex maze. Your body’s immune system, meant to protect you, turns against itself, leading to a cascade of symptoms that can affect nearly every part of your body—including your mouth. Oral health is often overlooked in the context of autoimmune diseases, but it’s a critical piece of the puzzle. Poor oral health can exacerbate autoimmune symptoms, and vice versa, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.
Are you looking for a new dentist near you? Contact our dental office in Knoxville today at (865) 687-8670. We welcome new patients in Knoxville, including Amherst, Marble City, and West Knoxville, TN.
Understanding the Link Between Autoimmune Conditions and Oral Health
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body. The mouth, as a gateway to the body, is particularly vulnerable. Many autoimmune conditions directly or indirectly impact oral health, and the medications used to manage these diseases can further complicate matters.
For example:
- Sjögren’s syndrome reduces saliva production, leading to dry mouth (xerostomia), which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Lupus can cause oral ulcers, inflammation, and heightened sensitivity in the mouth.
- Rheumatoid arthritis may affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing jaw pain or difficulty chewing.
- Crohn’s disease can lead to mouth sores and gum inflammation.
- Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis may manifest as oral lesions or gum issues.
Common Oral Health Issues in Those with Autoimmune Conditions
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry mouth is one of the most common oral health issues in autoimmune conditions, especially Sjögren’s syndrome. Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and preventing bacterial overgrowth. Without adequate saliva, you’re at higher risk for:
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Gum disease
- Oral thrush (a fungal infection)
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- A burning sensation in the mouth
Oral Ulcers and Sores
Oral ulcers are common in autoimmune conditions like lupus, Crohn’s disease, and Behçet’s disease. These painful sores can appear on the tongue, gums, or inside of the cheeks and may recur during disease flares.
- What to watch for: Painful red or white sores, sensitivity to spicy or acidic foods, or sores that last longer than two weeks.
Gum Disease
Autoimmune conditions often increase the risk of gum inflammation and gum disease due to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation. Medications like corticosteroids can also weaken gum tissue, making it more susceptible to infection.
- What to watch for: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, receding gums, or loose teeth.
If you’re dealing with symptoms of periodontal disease, contact our Knoxville dentist near you today by calling (865) 687-8670.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions can affect the TMJ, leading to jaw pain, stiffness, or difficulty opening the mouth. This can make brushing, flossing, or eating challenging.
What to do:
- Use warm compresses to relax the jaw muscles.
- Avoid hard or chewy foods that strain the jaw.
- Ask your doctor about physical therapy or a mouthguard for TMJ relief.
- Consider consulting a TMJ specialist for severe symptoms.
Oral Infections
Immunosuppressive medications used to manage autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of oral infections, such as thrush (caused by Candida) or viral infections like herpes simplex.
- What to watch for: White patches in the mouth, redness, soreness, or unusual lesions.
When to Seek Professional Help
While proactive care can prevent many issues, some symptoms require immediate attention. Contact our dentist in Knoxville or your doctor if you experience:
- Persistent oral pain or sores that don’t heal within two weeks.
- Severe dry mouth that impacts eating or speaking.
- Signs of infection, such as swelling, pus, or fever.
- Jaw pain or locking that interferes with daily activities.
- Unexplained changes in your gums, teeth, or oral tissues.
The Bigger Picture: Oral Health and Systemic Wellness
Maintaining good oral health isn’t just about a bright smile—it’s about supporting your overall well-being. For autoimmune patients, the stakes are higher. Chronic oral infections or inflammation can worsen systemic symptoms, increase flare frequency, and even contribute to complications like cardiovascular disease or diabetes, which are already risks for many autoimmune conditions.
By prioritizing oral health, you’re taking a proactive step toward managing your autoimmune disease holistically. You’re also reducing the burden on your body, giving it more energy to fight inflammation and maintain balance. To schedule an appointment with our dentist near you, contact our dental office in Knoxville at (865) 687-8670.
