Periodontal Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis | Dentist in Lake City

51449 dentist

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) are a systemic inflammatory disorder, which is how they have a connection. Both diseases frustrate the immune system and attack its own tissues, eventually leading to tooth loss and pain of joints. Learn about the connection and what you can do to protect your overall health.

Studies show a strong connection between RA and gum disease, an inflammatory condition that can lead to tooth loss and other health complications. Both diseases have inflammation in common, which explains the connection. Inflammation is a protective immune system response to viruses and bacteria. RA is an autoimmune disease which causes it to mistakenly trigger inflammation even if there are no viruses or bacteria present. Also, Brushing and flossing can be challenging for those with RA. In the journal PLoS Pathogens, they found that the bacteria that causes periodontal disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, increases the severity of rheumatoid arthritis, leads to an earlier onset of the disease, and causes symptoms to progress quickly.

It is important for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to be brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist in 51449 regularly. It is very important to work with your doctors to find out what works best for you. People who have both gum disease and RA should have an informed care team composed of both a physician and a periodontist. If you don’t have a periodontist, you should get an evaluation from your dentist every year to monitor the status of your gums. Research has found that when patients with RA successfully treat gum disease, pain and other symptoms get better.

For patients with RA, one must pay close attention to oral health and schedule regular dental exams, eat healthy and always brush and floss. If you have trouble taking care of your teeth due to stiff, painful hands or jaws, speak to your dentist or therapist about ways to make dental care easier. Here are some tips as to how you can make dental care easier to manage:

  • Toothbrush: add a tennis ball or bicycle grip to better handle your toothbrush
  • Floss: experiment with different type of floss
  • Toothpaste: using toothpaste in a pump may be easier for you than toothpaste you have to squeeze

If you have any questions or concerns regarding periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis, contact our dental office in Lake City, IA to schedule a consultation and what we can do for you.

Family 1st Dental of Lake City
Phone: (712) 464-3124
1331 West Main Street
Lake City, IA 51449

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Lake City Dental Office

Dentist Lake City

Lake City Location

1331 West Main,
Lake City, IA 51449

(712) 464-3124

Family First Dental - Dr. R. Louie Ching

Our Dental News

Dentist Lake City

55igoYYplBU99EAs9NDu7RPcutd2M5IFNjYRKUJ5

Transform Your Smile with Invisalign® at Family 1st Dental

Invisalign® has revolutionized orthodontic treatment by providing a subtle and effective way to achieve a straighter smile. For those considering options to enhance their teeth alignment, the benefits offered by this system are numerous. Family 1st Dental, located at 1331 […]

Learn More
55igoYYplBU99EAs9NDu7RPcutd2M5IFNjYRKUJ5

Essential Home Care Tips for Optimal Dental Hygiene

Maintaining excellent dental health is critical for overall wellness, and a robust oral care routine at home greatly contributes to this goal. Family 1st Dental, located at 1331 West Main Street, Lake City, IA 51449, specializes in general dentistry, providing […]

Learn More
55igoYYplBU99EAs9NDu7RPcutd2M5IFNjYRKUJ5

Instilling Dental Care Habits in Children: Why Family 1st Dental is Your Best Choice

Ensuring children develop healthy dental habits is crucial for their long-term oral health. At Family 1st Dental, located at 1331 West Main Street, Lake City, IA 51449, the focus is on providing a nurturing environment where children can learn the […]

Learn More