A range of research in recent years has found that a strong link exists between Psoriatic Arthritis and oral health issues. While this link appears to work both ways, it certainly seems that those with Psoriatic Arthritis are especially at risk of developing severe dental issues. This is an important connection, and shows the importance of oral hygiene.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PA) is a health condition that involves chronic inflammation. It affects various joints in the human body, and is a type of Arthritis.
Research in recent years has suggested that there is a strong link between PA and oral health problems. The link does seem to work both ways. However, those with PA definitely appear to be at a heightened risk of developing dental issues.
Background
PA is an inflammatory condition that involves an overactive immune response. It combines Psoriasis – a skin condition – and arthritis [1]. Around a third of those with Psoriasis will go on to develop PA [2].
The symptoms of PA include pain and swelling in the joints. The joints that are commonly affected are the knees, elbows and wrists. Also, PA is also known to cause fatigue, eye problems and jaw pain [1].
PA, like any form of Arthritis, has a negative impact on the life of the patient. If left untreated, the condition can cause lasting joint damage. Treatment is available, including various medicines [1].
The Link
A lot of research has been done which looks at the link between PA and dental health. The consistent conclusion is that a link certainly exists between the two.
For example, research has shown that people with PA are three times likelier to develop advanced tooth decay than the general population [3]. Therefore, those with PA are likely to develop cavities that require fillings.
Because PA is known to involve inflammation, this presents immediate oral health issues. For example, gum disease involves inflammation of the gums. Therefore, it is no surprise that other research has showed that those with PA are at a higher risk of developing severe gum disease [4].
Furthermore, other studies have showed that those with PA also face an increased likelihood of experiencing bone loss and having missing teeth [4]. Considering these are two complications of gum disease, this offers more weight to the idea that PA is closely linked to oral health problems.
But as mentioned, it does seem that the link goes both ways. For instance, other research has showed that poor gum health, speech difficulties arising from dental issues and general oral pain are all risk factors for developing PA [5]. Therefore, there does seem to be a very strong connection between both conditions.
Preventing problems
It is important for everyone to have excellent oral hygiene. But for those more at risk of developing dental problems – such as those with PA – it is even more important.
There are things that we can all do for our oral health. For example, this includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing each day and eating healthily – which means cutting down on sugary food and drinks and tobacco.
Anyone who has PA, or takes a medication for a similar condition, should always inform their dentist when seeing them. Therefore, this will help the dentist to tailor their care and offer practical advice.
Overall, the wide body of research into this subject has conclusively found a strong link between PA and dental problems. It certainly seems that the development of PA results in worse oral health. But as shown above, the link seems to work both ways.
Thinking points…
1) The research definitely points to there being a strong connection between PA and dental issues. But regardless of our health, all of us should regularly visit a dental clinic for a check-up. Moreover, dental issues are linked with a range of physical health conditions. Attending a dental clinic twice a year is important, as a dentist will be able to monitor your oral health, and offer treatment if needed. Consider booking an appointment now.
2) Do you have any form of Arthritis, or PA? The research shows you are at risk of developing severe oral health problems. Therefore, remember to take extra care with your oral health, as this can help to limit the damage caused by PA. Ensure you let your dentist know, and make sure you see them regularly. We recommend scheduling a check-up soon.
What we offer at Taradale Dental
Taradale Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offer many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings and root canals.
We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and dental implants.
It is important for oral problems to be addressed early. Any issues can be identified at check-ups. If further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan that is suited to their needs. Early detection helps to prevent the problem getting worse.
The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.
Our Calgary-based dental clinic Taradale Dental follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.
We would love you to visit us here at Taradale Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca.
References
[1] NHS Inform. (2022). Psoriatic arthritis. Available: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/muscle-bone-and-joints/conditions/psoriatic-arthritis. Last accessed: 23rd July 2022.
[2] O’Connor, R. C., Fawthrop, F., Salha, R., & Sidebottom, A. J. (2017). Management of the temporomandibular joint in inflammatory arthritis: Involvement of surgical procedures. European Journal of Rheumatology. 42 (2): p151-156. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.5152/eurjrheum.2016.035.
[3] Mishra, S., Johnson, L., Agrawal, S., & Rajput, S. (2021). Assessment of Periodontal status in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: A retrospective, case-control study. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry. 13 (8): p776-783. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4317/jced.58125.
[4] Qiao, P., Shi, Q., Zhang, R., Lingling, E., Wang, P., Wang, J., & Liu, H. (2019). Psoriasis Patients Suffer From Worse Periodontal Status—A Meta-Analysis. Frontiers in Medicine. 6 (212). DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2019.00212.
[5] Macklis, P., Adams, K. M., Li, D., Kripinsky, A., Bechtel, M., Trinidad, J., Kaffenberger, J., Kumar, P., & Kaffenberger. B. H. (2019). The impacts of oral health symptoms, hygiene, and diet on the development and severity of psoriasis. Dermatology Online Journal. 25 (7). DOI: https://doi.org/10.5070/D3257044813.
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