Waldorf Periodontist | What Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Have to Do with Gum Disease?

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Waldorf Periodontist

How is gum pain related to joint pain? Periodontal disease, or gum disease, and rheumatoid arthritis are systemic inflammatory disorders that affect different parts of your body. Both diseases attack the immune system and the surrounding tissue, eventually leading to tooth loss or joint pain. These two diseases have more in common than you might think. Understanding them could help preserve your overall health.

Perhaps the most striking similarity in gum disease and arthritis is the presence of inflammation, an immune system response that is triggered to fight viruses and bacteria. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease, meaning that it will trigger an inflammatory response automatically, even if there are no viruses or bacteria present. One study in the journal PLoS Pathogens found that the bacteria that cause periodontal disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, will increase the severity of rheumatoid arthritis. This ultimately causes symptoms to progress more quickly.

It is important for patients with rheumatoid arthritis to take care of their oral health. It’s also vital that they work with their dentist to find out what kind of treatment works best. Those with both periodontal disease and RA should work with a team composed of both a physician and a periodontist. A periodontist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. When patients with RA successfully treat periodontal disease, their other symptoms may also improve.

If you’ve been diagnosed with RA, pay close attention to oral health, keep up with your dental exams, eat healthy and don’t forget to brush and floss. If inflammation or joint stiffness gets in the way of your oral care, talk to your dentist about ways to make personal dental care easier.

For any questions about periodontal disease or rheumatoid arthritis, contact the office of Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS to schedule a consultation with our periodontist in Waldorf.

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (703) 894-4867
Url: https://drkarlsmith.com/
2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria, VA 22302

What Baby Boomers Need to Know About Gum Disease

Posted on by IdentityDental
Waldorf Periodontist

If you’re a baby boomer, born between 1946 and 1964, here’s another reason to improve your oral health: Your risk of periodontal (gum) disease rises with age and can lead to a host of physical problems, including Alzheimer’s disease.

Higher Risk of Periodontal Disease

Boomers grew up in a time of prosperity, education, and opportunity. Yet this generation has a greater need for oral treatment than any other. The Centers for Disease Control reports that 70 percent of Americans 65 and older have chronic gum disease. Surveys suggest that growing up in a time of plenty may have led to a taste for a diet rich in carbohydrates and sugar. Starches and sweets accelerate the formation of plaque, which leads to enamel erosion and gingivitis. 

Research also shows that boomers can do better to protect their oral health. One survey shows only 40 percent of older people use mouthwash, 34 percent brush their teeth only once a day, and 47 percent say they often skip flossing. 

When age-related conditions like arthritis make proper brushing and flossing more difficult, it exacerbates the problem further. 

Periodontal Disease Raises Risk for Alzheimer’s 

Another reason to take care of your mouth as you age is the growing connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease. More than 6 million Americans over 65 have been diagnosed with this form of dementia, a number projected to more than double by 2050.  

A 2019 National Institutes of Health study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease shows the bacteria that cause gingivitis, the earliest form of periodontal disease, are also connected to several forms of dementia. One species of bacteria, porphyromonas gingivalis, is believed to migrate from gum infections through the bloodstream and into the brain. There, they release enzymes that can destroy nerve cells, leading to memory loss and Alzheimer’s.

The relationship between dementia and gum disease goes the other way, too: People with memory loss may neglect their oral health.

Protecting Oral Health as You Age

Research is underway to develop a drug that can block bad bacterial enzymes and slow the progression of dementia. Until then, it is imperative to take extra care of your teeth and gums as you age.

  • Brush twice a day, floss once or twice a day, and visit our office for regular checkups. 
  • Cut out sugary foods and beverages. Use the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is shown to starve harmful bacteria and reduce plaque buildup.
  • Dry mouth lowers oral pH, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Talk to us about special oral rinses, lozenges, and other preventive measures. 
  • Swish with water after eating and consuming sweet and acidic drinks.
  • Resolve to adopt a healthier diet and lifestyle for overall good health. Studies show this alone may lower your risk for Alzheimer’s disease by up to 60 percent.

Aging does not mean gum disease and related health problems are inevitable. Baby boomers are known for being proactive about health care when they have the right information. We are happy to do our part and help you improve your oral health in your golden years. 

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (703) 894-4867
Url: https://drkarlsmith.com/
2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria, VA 22302

Periodontist Alexandria | What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

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Why Are My Teeth So Sensitive?

Alexandria Periodontist

If taking a swig of ice-cold water makes you recoil, it’s likely due to your sensitive teeth. What causes this unpleasant reaction? There are several reasons you may need treatment for sensitive teeth.

Tooth sensitivity is usually influenced by the soft inner tissue beneath the enamel of your tooth called dentin. When extreme temperatures irritate the tooth nerve, you’ll feel a tingling sensation and sometimes pain.

Another cause of tooth sensitivity is when tiny tubes of fluid in the dentin become exposed. Sometimes this occurs due to receding gums lines or damaged teeth. If this happens, pain can be triggered by foods that are too hot or cold, too sweet or acidic, or simply from contact or exposure to air.

Temporary tooth sensitivity can also be caused by whitening or orthodontic treatments. This type of sensitivity will often dissipate in a couple weeks. However, in severe cases, the tooth nerve itself may be exposed. This causes severe pain and irritation and will require immediate treatment.

What Can I Do to Treat Tooth Sensitivity?

If your teeth are becoming increasingly sensitive, contact our office for immediate care. Our team will likely screen for underlying causes requiring treatment. We’ll also be able to recommend the best method to manage your discomfort.

How Can I Prevent Teeth Sensitivity?

Oversensitivity in teeth can sometimes be prevented. Try to avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes and don’t brush too aggressively. Brushing too hard can damage enamel and expose other sensitive areas. Additionally, wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports protects teeth from trauma. Teeth will become more sensitive after being chipped or cracked.

After you rule out serious underlying conditions, you can start to managed mildly sensitive teeth with a special toothpaste designed to decrease sensitivity. If that doesn’t provide enough relief, ask about a prescription product.

Contact our office to schedule an appointment with our periodontist in Alexandria if you suffer from any level of tooth sensitivity and we will get you the help you need.

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (703) 894-4867
Url: https://drkarlsmith.com/
2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria, VA 22302