Are there links between other diseases and poor dental care?
Yes. There are links between many diseases and poor dental practices. One in particular that has been affecting the Scottsdale community is Rheumatoid Arthritis and Periodontitis.
Periodontitis is inflammation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is one of the most common human diseases and is most commonly caused by certain bacteria (known as periodontal bacteria) and by the local inflammation triggered by those bacteria.

How does dental health connect with arthritis?
Previously, RA was thought to cause periodontal disease through a decrease in a person’s dexterity which would lead to a pattern of poor oral hygiene. However, recent studies have shown that patients with RA had a three times higher rate of periodontitis than patients with osteoarthritis. This would suggest that there is a potential underlying biological interaction between these two diseases.

A study in 2012 reported that 65% of RA patients had gum disease compared with just 28% of patients without RA. They found that RA patients were four times more likely to have gum disease than their RA-free counterparts and their gum disease tended to be more severe.

Studies have shown that in RA patients with gum disease, patients experiencing loss of jawbone had RA-associated bone erosions in other joints and that in RA patients, the severity of gum disease tracks with the severity of their RA disease activity.

Is there a treatment?
Treatments for Periodontitis include professionally cleaning the pockets around teeth to prevent damage to surrounding bone. In some cases, advanced cases may require surgery.
Home treatments include:
• Brushing your teeth at least twice a day. If you can, brush after each meal.
• Opt for an electric toothbrush to maximize your cleaning potential.
• Make sure your toothbrush has soft or extra-soft bristles.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months.
• Floss daily.
• Use a natural mouthwash.
• Visit your dentist at least twice per year.
• Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco.
• Limit your sugar intake.

Are there any other outside influences that may also factor in?
Yes. Smoking is a well-recognized shared risk for both rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease.