Living with rheumatoid arthritis comes with a unique set of challenges, and for many patients, oral health is one of them. This condition doesn’t just affect the joints; it can also make everyday tasks like brushing and flossing more difficult. On top of that, some of the medications commonly used to manage rheumatoid arthritis can impact the body’s ability to heal or fight off infection, which is an important consideration if you’re thinking about getting dental implants to replace your missing teeth! The good news is that a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t automatically rule out dental implants; here’s more.
How Rheumatoid Arthritis Impacts Oral Health
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack its own tissues, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness, commonly in the joints.
For many patients, this makes it harder to grip and maneuver a toothbrush or floss effectively, which can lead to an increased buildup of plaque and a higher risk of cavities and gum disease. Research also suggests a possible link between RA and periodontal disease, since both conditions involve chronic inflammation. All of this means maintaining consistent, thorough oral hygiene is especially important for patients managing RA!
The Effect on Dental Implant Candidacy
Many patients with RA take medications to help manage their symptoms and discomfort. While these medications can be highly effective for joint health, some of them work by suppressing the immune system, which can also slow the body’s ability to heal after surgery and increase the risk of infection.
Since dental implant placement is a surgical procedure that relies on proper healing and osseointegration (the process where the implant posts fuse with the jawbone), your dentist will need to take a look at your specific medications and overall health before determining if implants are a safe option for you.
During a consultation, your dentist will review your full medical history, including your current medications, to better understand how your treatment plan could affect implant surgery and healing. Rheumatoid arthritis can add some extra considerations to your dental care, but it doesn’t have to stand in the way of a healthy, complete smile!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Alejandro Lamas, our team has proudly served patients in Plantation and the nearby communities for several years. We offer a wide range of services, including tooth replacement options like dental implants placed right here in-office. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule a consultation to see if dental implants are right for you, you can reach out online or call us today for more information. Telephone: (754) 701-0386.