Complication: Rheumatoid Arthritis

Symptoms

Tender, warm, swollen joints; joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity; fatigue; fever; and weight loss

Oral bacteria from inflammation of the mouth (gum disease) may influence inflammation of the joints including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Treating this periodontal disease may help or prevent RA.

A study conducted by John Hopkins University showed a correlation was found between rheumatoid arthritis and gum disease. A population norm for gum disease is 35%, with 5% having severe gum disease. With RA patients, it was found that 70% had gum disease and 5% had severe gum disease. This data was collected from 100 RA patients and 40 healthy volunteers. The higher rates in RA were not explained by risk factors such as smoking and age. Even in early stages of RA, gum disease was present.

In a study by Smolik I, et al. Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry. 2009 May; 30(4):188-197, the authors indicate that a specific perio pathogen, Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), is the only microbe known to produce an enzyme capable of modifying specific proteins. The bacterial enzymes catalyze a protein-folding reaction. The body recognizes this folded protein as a foreign entity. The body mobilizes an autoimmune response to these proteins, which culminates clinically in the joint destruction typically seen in RA-susceptible individuals.

The association between these two diseases is not confirmed, though the correlation is strong. Maintaining a healthy mouth and treating gum disease may lessen your chances of getting rheumatoid arthritis.

Prevention Tips

• Brush your teeth twice daily and floss daily
• Visit your dentist every six months
• Don’t smoke
• Be aware of your general health