Sjӧgren’s syndrome

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Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the body’s tear and salivary glands. Saliva plays an important role in maintaining a healthy mouth because it helps to:

  • Wash away food and debris from teeth and gums

  • Keep the surface of your teeth strong by providing calcium, fluoride and phosphate ions on the teeth’s surface

Low saliva production can cause dry mouth and lead to many problems. If it persists for months or years, you can develop difficulty chewing and swallowing, severe and progressive tooth decay and loss, and oral infections (particularly fungal). Dry mouth can also affect your sense of taste.

A recent study found that people diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome had significantly more cavities than those who did not have the condition.


Maintaining good oral health with Sjӧgren’s syndrome

If you have Sjӧgren’s syndrome, it’s especially important to see your dentist regularly. To maintain good oral health between appointments, you should:

  • Sip and drink water regularly throughout the day

  • Use lip balm if your lips are dry and cracked

  • Use toothpaste that contains fluoride

  • Gently brush your teeth, gums and tongue twice a day and after each meal

  • Floss your teeth at least once a day

  • Avoid sugary food and drinks

  • Use saliva substitutes or prescription drugs that can help increase saliva production

Ask your dentist whether you need to use a fluoride mouth rinse, a fluoride gel at night or have fluoride varnish applied to your teeth to protect them from decay

Enjoying better total health starts with a visit to your dentist

All you need to do is schedule an appointment with a dentist in your plan’s network. They will provide you with preventive dental care that can help you have a healthy smile and body.

To find a dentist in your network, sign in to regence.com or the Regence app and select Find Care.