Are Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients More Prone to Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease affects people with rheumatoid arthritis twice as much as others without the condition. Periodontal disease essentially is an infection of tissues that support the teeth. Between the tooth and gums, there is a v-shaped crevice called a sulcus. Periodontal disease attacks just below the gum line in the sulcus and can cause the attachment of the tooth and supporting tissues to break down. As tissues become more damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket. Gingivitis and periodontitis are two stages of periodontal disease.

• What are the risk factors for periodontal disease?
• What are the warning signs for periodontal disease?
• How is rheumatoid arthritis tied to periodontal disease?

It's possible to have no warning that you are developing periodontal disease. That is why regular dental check-ups are important for people living with arthritis and related conditions. If you only go to the dentist when you have a toothache, you may be missing the signs of early periodontal disease that your dentist would be able to observe. Read more in Are Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients More Prone to Periodontal Disease?

Related Resources:

• In-Depth Report: Periodontal Disease
• What Causes and Heals Mouth Sores?
• An Overview of Gum and Periodontal Disease
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: 10 Facts You Should Know
• Dental Care Should Not Be Neglected by Arthritis Patients

_{Photo by Marcin Balcerzak (iStockphoto)}