How does Sjogren's Syndrome affect Oral Health?

The dentists at Alta Loma Dental Care are happy to be part of the care teams for people suffering from autoimmune disorders. One disorder which affects oral health is Sjögren’s Syndrome, which can cause dry mouth and which dentists often help to identify.

In people with Sjögren’s Syndrome, the body attacks the tear and saliva glands. It can also impact the joints and is commonly seen in people with lupus, most of whom are older women. Also like lupus, it appears to have a genetic component but be triggered by infections. Sjögren’s Syndrome is painful but especially dangerous for oral health because of the role saliva plays in clearing out food debris and maintaining the right balance of bacteria. People with dry mouth are at high risk for gum disease.

There are medications available that can stimulate saliva production. Throat moisturizers and sucking sugar-free candy can also provide patients with some relief. If a dentist suspects a patient has Sjögren’s Syndrome, the next step will be testing for it from a lower lip biopsy. During this procedure, a few salivary glands are plucked from the patient’s lower lip and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Alta Loma Dental Care is at 7283 Carnelian St, Alta Loma, California, 91701. To schedule an appointment, call 909-987-6268 or visit Alta Loma Dental Care and fill out a contact sheet.