Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions in the United States, affecting more than 58 million adults. The condition can cause various symptoms and health problems, including pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.
However, not a lot of people know that arthritis can also have a significant impact on oral health. Here are five ways that arthritis can affect your dental health
TMJ
People with arthritis often experience inflammation in their jaw joints, known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. It can lead to pain and stiffness in the jaw, making it difficult to open the mouth wide. It can make it difficult to perform routine activities such as brushing and flossing, leading to increased plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. TMJ can lead to various problems when it comes to oral health. Here are some of them.
Inflammation
Arthritis and TMJ can cause inflammation and pain in the jaw, making it difficult to open your mouth wide enough to brush your teeth properly. It can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Chewing Problems
Arthritis can also cause chewing problems, leading to weight loss and malnutrition. Chewing is vital for good digestion and absorption of nutrients from food. Chewing also helps to reduce the risk of choking.
Dry Mouth
Arthritis medications such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids can cause dry mouth, which is a condition that occurs when there is not enough saliva in the mouth. This can create a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Tooth Loss
Not many people think that arthritis can lead to tooth loss, but it is a possibility. Arthritis can destroy the teeth’ supporting structures, leading to tooth loss. The main reason why arthritis leads to tooth loss is the fact that it can cause inflammation, which destroys the bones and tissues that support the teeth.
Arthritis can be a devastating disease, especially regarding oral health. Thankfully, there are various ways to deal with it. Here are ways you can do that.
Tooth Replacement
Tooth replacement is an option if you’ve lost teeth due to arthritis. Teeth implants are the best option for tooth replacement as they provide a natural look and feel. They also don’t require special care and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.
These implants are made of metal posts or frames surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implant has bonded with the bone, a small connector called an abutment is placed on top of it. This abutment holds and secures the replacement tooth or bridge.
Dental Crowns
Another way to replace missing teeth is through dental crowns. Dental crowns are false teeth that are custom-made to fit over existing teeth. They can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal materials.
Like dental implants, dental crowns provide a natural look and feel. They’re also durable and can last for many years with proper care.
Oral Hygiene
It’s essential to practice good oral hygiene even if you don’t have arthritis. This will help to prevent the development of the condition as well as other oral problems.
Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day can help to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. It’s also essential to visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
If you have arthritis, there are various
Proper Diet
A proper diet is one way to deal with oral issues and arthritis simultaneously. Both are connected to the other, so a good diet can help.
A diet rich in antioxidants can help to reduce inflammation. These foods include berries, dark leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts. Eating these foods can help to reduce the symptoms of arthritis as well as improve oral health. Here are other foods you should include in your diet.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for both oral health and arthritis. It helps reduce inflammation and is also required for the production of collagen, a protein that helps keep the gums and teeth healthy.
Some good sources of vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is another vital nutrient for oral health and arthritis. It helps to reduce inflammation and strengthens bones.
Some good sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, mushrooms, eggs, and dairy products. You can also get vitamin D from sunshine. However, ensure you don’t overdo it, as too much sun can lead to skin cancer.
Arthritis can have a significant impact on oral health. However, there are ways to deal with it. By following the tips above, you can help to improve your oral health and reduce the symptoms of arthritis.
