How Autoimmune Diseases Affect Your Oral Health

Autoimmune diseases can affect nearly every part of the body — including your mouth. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, and depending on the disease, this can have a direct impact on oral health. Understanding how these disorders interact with your mouth is key to preventing long-term dental issues.

The Most Common Autoimmune Diseases That Affect Oral Health

One of the most common autoimmune conditions that impacts oral health is Sjögren’s Syndrome. This condition, often linked with Rheumatoid Arthritis, targets the salivary glands and reduces saliva production. The resulting dry mouth (xerostomia) can increase the risk of cavities, cause fungal infections like oral thrush, and even alter your sense of taste and speech. Managing this condition requires excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

Other autoimmune diseases can also affect your mouth, each in unique ways:

• Crohn’s Disease: Can cause swelling in the gums and lips, as well as painful ulcers inside the mouth — often among the earliest signs of the condition.
• Lupus: May lead to ulcers or sores on the tongue and cheeks, which may or may not cause discomfort.
• Psoriasis: Though rare in the mouth, some individuals develop lesions on the lips, gums, or tongue.
• Hashimoto’s Disease & Scleroderma: These conditions can affect the muscles and tissues used for swallowing, indirectly impacting oral function and comfort.

Protecting Your Oral Health with an Autoimmune Condition

Because autoimmune diseases can affect the mouth before other symptoms appear, it’s important to monitor changes closely and maintain consistent dental care. Here’s how to protect your oral health:

• Brush twice daily and floss at least once a day.
• Stay hydrated to help combat dry mouth.
• Use saliva substitutes or sugar-free lozenges if recommended by your dentist.
• Schedule regular dental checkups to catch early signs of infection or tissue changes.

If you live with an autoimmune condition, consistent oral care is one of the best ways to prevent complications and preserve your overall health.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (510) 848-0114 today.