Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the body begins attacking its own moisture producing glands. This can affect saliva glands, tear ducts and other types of organs. The problem for oral health occurs when the saliva glands are affected and the flow of saliva reduces.
Sjogren’s Syndrome
This autoimmune disorder affects all racial and ethnic groups, but it is more common in women aged 40-50 years (perimenopausal).
The cause of Sjogren’s is unknown, as is the case with many autoimmune diseases.
Despite being one of the most common autoimmune disorders, the Sjogren’s Syndrome Foundation states that it takes an average of 4.7 years to receive a diagnosis. Sjogren’s Syndrome has two independent classifications.
Primary, which presents as dryness of the mouth and eyes, and secondary, which associates with another systemic rheumatic autoimmune disease such as scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Primary Effect of Sjogren’s on Oral Health
The primary effect of Sjogren’s on oral health is xerostomia (dry mouth) caused by damage to salivary glands. Saliva plays multiple roles of high emphasis in the oral cavity:
– It washes away food debris after eating and drinking.
– It maintains a more neutral pH to counteract the acidic effects of bacteria.
– Retains calcium, phosphorus and fluoride ions to keep enamel strong.
– Also, it moistens food and contains enzymes to begin digestion.
Untreated Xerostomia
If you leave xerostomia untreated, it can severely increase the rate and severity of tooth decay in individuals. If you feel you’ve been having dry mouth symptoms, always mention it to your dentist and hygienist.
Medications you’re taking may cause it, but it may also indicate Sjogren’s syndrome. It’s important to work in sequence with your physician and dentist to get a definitive diagnosis.
If you have questions about Sjogren’s Syndrome or Xerostomia, ask your dentist or hygienist at your next visit with us.
References
Mouth Healthy: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sjogrens-syndrome
National Center for Biotechnology Information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18362310
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