Periodontal Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis | Dentist in Hickman NE

68372 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 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 shared by our 68372 dentist 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 Hickman, NE dental office to schedule a consultation and what we can do for you.

Family 1st Dental of Hickman
Phone: (402) 792-3000
650 Chestnut Street, Suite 2
Hickman, NE 68372

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Hickman Dental Office

Dentist Hickman

Hickman Location

650 Chestnut - Suite 2,
Hickman, NE 68372

(402) 792-3000

Family First Dental - Dr. Rachel Tiejten

Our Dental News

Dentist Hickman

9p9G0KezVZzns4PXOjNP2pBuA5Gx0lTfjOzbMRcB

What to Expect During Your First Visit to Our Hickman Office

When entering a dental clinic for the first time, it’s common to have questions and concerns. At Family 1st Dental – Hickman, the focus is on creating a welcoming atmosphere where every visitor feels comfortable. New patients can look forward […]

Learn More
9p9G0KezVZzns4PXOjNP2pBuA5Gx0lTfjOzbMRcB

The Impact of Diet on Oral Health

Maintaining excellent oral health goes beyond regular dental visits. Diet plays a significant role in the well-being of teeth and gums, influencing issues from cavities to gum disease. At Family 1st Dental – Hickman, attention is given to how specific […]

Learn More
9p9G0KezVZzns4PXOjNP2pBuA5Gx0lTfjOzbMRcB

The Importance of Comprehensive Dental Exams: Why Choose Family 1st Dental – Hickman

Dental exams serve as a fundamental pillar in maintaining excellent oral health. Regular evaluations can identify potential issues before they escalate, allowing for timely interventions that can prevent more complex procedures later on. At Family 1st Dental, located at 650 […]

Learn More