Many people believe that tooth decay, gingivitis, or mouth ulcers mainly stem from poor oral hygiene, eating a lot of sweets, or rarely going to the dentist. However, in some cases, persistent symptoms in the oral cavity may be an early manifestation of autoimmune disease.
Prolonged dry mouth, recurrent tooth decay
One of the autoimmune diseases often associated with oral problems is Sjogren's syndrome. The disease occurs when the immune system attacks the secretive glands, causing the body to reduce the production of tears and saliva.
People with Sjogren syndrome may experience prolonged dry mouth, difficulty swallowing dry food, burning sensation in the mouth, taste changes, or recurrent tooth decay even if they maintain good oral hygiene.
Some people also have to drink water regularly when eating, always carry water bottles, use candy or chewing-on pills to reduce the feeling of dry mouth but do not realize this may be an abnormal sign.
Frequent mouth ulcers
Oral ulcers are quite common and may be related to many causes such as stress, diet, or lack of certain nutrients. However, if ulcers continuously recur, cause severe pain, or take a long time to heal, patients should pay attention.
In particular, recurrent mouth ulcers need to be checked more carefully if symptoms such as joint pain or stiffness, skin rash, prolonged fatigue or dry eyes simultaneously appear.
Some autoimmune diseases and systemic inflammatory diseases such as lupus, pemphigus, flat lichen, Behcet's disease or enteritis can also cause lesions in the oral cavity.
When should I go for an examination?
Oral problems are not always a sign of autoimmune disease. However, people should see a doctor if dry mouth, recurrent tooth decay or long-lasting mouth ulcers persist even after paying attention to oral hygiene and care.
In particular, if these symptoms appear along with dry eyes, joint pain or swelling, morning stiffness, prolonged fatigue, rash or other abnormal manifestations, patients should consult a doctor for a comprehensive assessment.
The coordination between dentists, internists and musculoskeletal doctors can help identify early cases of problems in the oral cavity related to systemic diseases, thereby having appropriate check-up and treatment directions.
