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If you have an autoimmune disease, you know the effects of your health condition can be far-reaching. These types of diseases affect the way your immune system reacts to the tissues and organs in your own body. Your holistic dentist in Southlake, <\/span>Dr. Preetha Thomas<\/span><\/a>, knows autoimmune diseases can have a significant effect on your oral health, and she considers each patient\u2019s health status while creating treatment plans.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n How does having an autoimmune disease like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma (progressive systemic sclerosis) affect your oral health? It may be with your saliva, your mouth, or in the function of your jaw. Let\u2019s take a closer look. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n People who have rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, which then increases the chances that they will experience a host of <\/span>health conditions<\/span><\/a> associated with periodontal disease. Heart problems, respiratory issues, tooth loss, and other issues are all related to gum disease. <\/span><\/p>\n Arthritis can also affect the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) and make eating, speaking, and opening the mouth up wide difficult. Certain medications may cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of cavities and infection. <\/span><\/p>\n People who have lupus are at an especially high risk of a number of oral health problems, including cavities, oral sores, and oral thrush (or fungal infections in the mouth). Indeed, the first sign of lupus may be a particular type of sore on the lower lip, inner cheeks, or the roof of the mouth. And the impact of lupus on oral health is even greater considering that many of the medications that treat lupus also cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease even further. <\/span><\/p>\n Patients who have Lyme disease also have considerable challenges with dental health. They may experience pain in the face or teeth, or have an aching TMJ (temporomandibular joint). <\/span><\/p>\nRheumatoid Arthritis and Oral Health<\/span><\/h2>\n
Lupus, Lyme Disease, and Oral Health<\/span><\/h2>\n
Scleroderma and Oral Health<\/span><\/h2>\n