Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dental Health - What You Need to Know
Posted on 2/2/2026 by Dr. Darren Huddleston |
 Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease where your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your own tissues, particularly the lining of your joints. This can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints. But did you know that RA can also affect your mouth and overall dental health? Let's explore the connection and what you can do to protect your smile.
Understanding the Link
The inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis isn't limited to just your joints. It can affect other parts of your body, including your salivary glands. These glands are responsible for producing saliva, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy mouth. Saliva helps to:
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Neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth |
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Wash away food particles |
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Remineralize tooth enamel |
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Fight off harmful bacteria and fungi |
When RA affects the salivary glands, it can lead to reduced saliva production, a condition known as dry mouth (xerostomia).
The Impact of Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can significantly increase your risk of several dental problems, including:
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Tooth decay: With less saliva to wash away food and neutralize acids, teeth are more vulnerable to decay. |
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Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis): Saliva helps control the bacteria that cause gum disease. Reduced saliva allows these bacteria to thrive, leading to inflammation and potential bone loss around the teeth. |
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Oral infections: Dry mouth makes you more susceptible to fungal infections like oral thrush. |
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Difficulty swallowing and speaking: Saliva lubricates the mouth and throat, making it easier to swallow and speak clearly. |
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Sore throat: Without enough saliva, the throat can become dry and irritated. |
Other Oral Manifestations of RA
Besides dry mouth, individuals with rheumatoid arthritis may experience other oral health issues, such as:
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Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: RA can affect the TMJ, the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, leading to pain, clicking, and limited jaw movement. |
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Increased risk of gum inflammation: Even without significant dry mouth, the general inflammation associated with RA can make gums more prone to inflammation. |
Prevention Dentistry and Managing Your Oral Health
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, taking proactive steps to protect your dental health is essential. Here are some tips:
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Maintain excellent oral care at home: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and bacteria, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease. |
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Use a fluoride rinse: A fluoride rinse can help strengthen tooth enamel and protect against decay, especially if you have dry mouth. |
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Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your mouth moist. |
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Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies: These stimulate saliva production. |
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Avoid sugary drinks and snacks: Sugar feeds bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay. |
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See your dentist regularly: Regular checkups and cleanings are crucial for early detection and treatment of any dental problems. Be sure to inform your dentist about your rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and any medications you are taking. |
Working with Your Dental Team
Your dentist can work with you to develop a personalized oral care plan that addresses your specific needs. They can also recommend products and treatments to help manage dry mouth and other oral manifestations of RA. Remember, good oral hygiene is an important part of overall health, especially for those living with rheumatoid arthritis.
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