Rheumatoid Arthritis
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For nearly 100 years, physicians and scientists have been aware of the seemingly close relationship between swollen gum tissues and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, we’ve only just begun to understand why.
According to the California Dental Association, RA is “characterized by an antibody response” to specific types of proteins that are directly linked to periodontal disease. Studies suggest that the presence of gum inflammation and a high level of bacterial plaque could potentially “trigger” RA.
In other words, the germs we associate with gum disease are the same bacteria that cause RA. These bacteria can transfer themselves from your mouth to other parts of the body via the bloodstream, due to tissue detachment and bleeding associated with periodontal diseases.
The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society warns that oral symptoms like bleeding gums and gum recession are more severe with active RA. Approximately 65% of RA patients will have clinical gum disease (more than double the rate of non-RA individuals.)
The NRAS also warns that people with gum disease may see an “earlier onset, faster progression and greater severity of RA, including increased damage to bone and cartilage.”
Hand in hand, existing periodontal disease and RA can lead to accelerated bone loss, which in turn affects the integrity of teeth.
RA and gum disease are both inflammatory diseases that play off of one another. Studies suggest that periodontal therapies (such as deep cleanings and other non-surgical treatment) can improve gum health as well as RA, by reducing inflammatory markers in the body.
If you have puffy gums and RA, make a point to speak to your dental provider about periodontal therapy. By reducing plaque levels and inflammation inside of your mouth, you can potentially lessen the effects of co-existing RA symptoms.