How Has Lupus Affected My Dental Health?

Before lupus I rarely had any dental issues. But, after getting lupus, my dental health has progressively gotten worse. Lupus can affect any part of our body including our teeth and gums. I already hated going to the dentist so this just made it even worse.  Every time I would go for my regular 6 month checkups there would be another issue. I dreaded it so much.

Mouth bacteria

My dentist explained that the mouth can be a breeding ground for bacteria. I almost gagged when she mentioned that. So, if there is bacteria in the mouth it can travel through the saliva and into the rest of the part of our bodies causing infections or inflammations which can lead to a lupus flare up. I was shocked to learn that info and didn’t realize how a flare up or an infection could start in the mouth.

These bacteria can also lead to periodontal disease more commonly known as gum disease. This was something that I unfortunately developed after my lupus diagnosis. My dentist said I was still in the early stages and we would try to do everything we could to slow it down. My gums were red and swollen and were starting to recede. When I flossed I noticed blood as well. We decided to switch to soft bristles to help with the receding gums and switched toothpaste. I am guilty of not flossing after every meal. So, this was something that she wanted me to incorporate as well.

Oral surgery

I had some tooth decay and one of my tooth actually chipped, but luckily it was part of my wisdom teeth so we were able to just pull those teeth out. My dentist had to refer me to an oral surgeon and they were in contact with my rheumatologist to ensure that I would be well enough to do this procedure. Thankfully the procedure was quick and easy.

But, the recovery time felt long. My face was numb for a couple of days and I needed to continuing icing it since my face was so swollen. I also took more antibiotics to ensure I wouldn’t get an infection from the procedure. I’ve also had multiple cavities, but thankfully no root canal yet and I really hope I don’t need one anytime soon.

Dry mouth

A few years after my lupus diagnosis, I noticed that my mouth was incredibly dry and I needed to drink water all the time. I had no idea what was going on. So, after an MRI and biopsies, I was diagnosed with secondary Sjogren’s syndrome along with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. One of the biggest symptoms of Sjogren's was dry mouth which is a major cause of tooth decay. So, I also had to add in a dry mouth oral rinse to help combat that. I try to do that at least twice a day. I’ll add in more especially when I’m feeling the dryness.

It’s weird because its not a constant dryness and it varies every day. I also have sugar free gum and lozenges with me at all times.

Seeking advice and prevention

Every lupus patients deals with dental issues differently, which is why it is very important to keep up with regular checkups. Another issue that some lupus warriors face are oral ulcers or TMJ. I am very thankful that I have not experienced this, but I have read up on it and have asked my dentist and rheumatologist about it. So, in the event it ever does happen, I am aware and know what to expect.

Lupus patients should see their dentist at least every 6 months for their regular cleaning and if there are any issues they should immediately seek out their dentist’s advice. Prevention is key so we need to be on top of our appointments and dental health to ensure that everything is okay.