Rheumatoid Arthritis (R a ) &Gum Disease

Q .

“I recently learned I have arthritis and my doctor said to see a period ontis t.Can you explain why I need to see a dental specialist?”

A.

Your doctor’s recommendation is based on numerous research findings that show a correlation between the bacteria of gum disease and a number of serious health problems, including arthritis. Studies even show that keeping your gums healthy can result in less severe RA symptoms. I’ll explain…

As you are learning, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a debilitating, painful disease that destroys joints. The most common form, ossteo-arthritis, typically occurs as protective cartilage surrounding the joints wears down. RA is classified as an autoimmune disease. This means that the immune system has turned on itself and is continually attacking the linings of joints, which leads to joint destruction.

RA often emerges gradually, initially causing morning stiffness and weak, sore muscles. As inflammation from RA worsens, joints become swollen, achy and stiff. The symptoms of RA most often are felt in the fingers, wrists, elbows, hips, knees, ankles, toes and neck. Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA.

From decades of research, a link has been found between the bacteria of periodontal (gum) disease and many serious health problems. Through weakened gum tissues, the infectious bacteria of gum disease can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammatory reactions elsewhere in the body. This inflammation has been linked to heart dis- ease, stroke, memory loss, preterm babies, diabetes and impotency.

Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the U.S. In early stages, gum disease may cause the gums to bleed either when brushing or even spontaneously. Persistent bad breath and gum tenderness may also occur. As the disease progresses, gums become red in color and pus pockets form under the gum line at the base of some teeth. The bacteria causing the infection attack the structures that support tooth roots, and if the disease is not treated, teeth will begin to loosen and may need removing. Often times, this process occurs painlessly and silently with the patient unaware.

For people who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), many are learning that research is also noting close connections with arthritis and gum disease. It seems that gum disease and RA share a genetic similarity with the clinical makeup showing similar structures. This has been particularly notable in pathogens that spark disease or illness. Research has found that the pathological process that occurs in both gum disease and RA are nearly identical.

Both RA and periodontal disease cause chronic inflammation in tissues that connect to bone with both diseases having a similar inflammatory trigger. Even more similar is the particular species of bacteria found in periodontally-diseased tissues when compared with tissues around arthritic joints. In one study, a particular pathogen associated with periodontal disease was found to activate the same destructive process of rheumatoid arthritis.

Recently, researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine found the mucosal landscapes such as gum tissues, lungs and gastro-intestinal tract were potential origination sources for RA. Apparently, the process can occur through a particular strain of bacteria that is associated with gum disease. Because people with periodontal disease are more likely to have this particular strain of bacteria, they are more likely to produce toxic proteins in the immune system. As a result, gum disease may open the door for the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.

On a positive note, studies have shown that treating periodontal disease in RA patients helps to improve RA symptoms. This likely occurs because of a lighter burden of oral inflammation to the system.

The doctor who is treating your arthritis appears to have reviewed the findings reinforcing how oral health correlates closely to overall health specifically as it relates to RA. When doctors consider how the presence of gum disease can significantly increase their patients’ risk for serious health conditions, they insist on better oral health awareness and referral to a periodontist is the first step. Good oral health should be a priority for every adult. Sadly, statistics show that nearly 75% of the U.S. adult population have some level of gum disease.

Commit yourself to thorough oral hygiene at home and regular dental checkups. If you have signs of gum disease, have treatment at your earliest convenience. Gum disease will only worsen over time, requiring more treatment time and expense. And, as research has shown time and again, risks to your overall health can be lowered with a healthy smile. It is also important to work with your doctor to get your arthritis under control. Doing so could potentially save both your joints and your teeth.

For any adult who is experiencing signs or symptoms of gum disease as mentioned above, call 501-262-4010 to arrange an examination. Or, visit: www.atkinsonimplants.com to learn more.