Sjogren's Syndrome: Oral Hygiene and Dry Mouth

Sjogren's Syndrome, pronounced "show grins", is a chronic autoimmune disorder that occurs when a person's body produces insufficient moisture. Symptoms of Sjogren's often include a dry mouth and throat, and can sometimes include swollen parotid glands (located at the curve of the jaw). Good oral hygiene can help to keep Sjogren's symptoms at bay, as well as prevent infections caused by inflammation in the mouth and neck region.

The salivary (saliva producing) glands in the body are often affected by Sjogren's Syndrome. When the mouth does not have enough saliva in it, people experience dry mouth. Dry mouth can be brought on by autoimmune dysfunction and can lead to individual's having difficulty speaking, swallowing and even talking. Drinking plenty of water and keeping your mouth hydrated go a long way toward minimizing symptoms, but perhaps the single most important thing a Sjogren's Syndrome patient can do is practice proper oral hygiene.

Consultation with a dentist who has experience in caring for patients with Sjogren's Syndrome is helpful, although not always available. You may be the first Sjogren's patient your dentist has ever seen. However, your dentist can recommend what type of toothbrush is best for you, and may recommend a soft brush to help prevent accidental injury to the soft tissues of the mouth which may be affect by the lack of moisture common to Sjogren's.

It is essential that individuals with Sjogren's brush their teeth frequently. Dry mouths can easily get ulcerations or small cuts from ingesting food. This can lead to an increased rate of bacterial infections in the mouth and the need for medications. Unfortunately, many medications have the side effect of dry mouth so can worsen the overall Sjogren's Syndrome even though they are needed to clear an infection. That's why it's best to practice good oral hygiene from the start and avoid getting infections all together.

Flossing can be done, gently. If done regularly, flossing can prevent build up in the mouth between teeth and will help prevent infections and dental cavities, which are a common problem in individuals who experience the dry mouth associated with Sjogren's Syndrome. Although it may seem like flossing could harm fragile mouth tissues, if done regularly and with a good amount of water swishing to moisten the mouth before you floss, you can floss without worry, and help keep your body free of infection.

Mouth washes and rinses are a good solution for Sjogren's patients as well. However, a common ingredient in many mouthwashes is alcohol. Individuals who experience dry mouth will want to avoid any mouth rinse or mouth wash preparation that contains alcohol as it can be drying to the mouth. However, rinses that help keep bacteria at bay and don't dry out the mouth are perfectly fine and can help contribute to keeping mouth tissues moist.

By practicing good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, dry mouth suffers can prevent unnecessary infections that can worsen their Sjogren's symptoms. The important thing to remember is that even if your mouth is dry, you can keep it clean and healthy. A clean, dry mouth is much better than an infected moist one! Sjogren's Syndrome may leave your mouth feeling dry, but it doesn't need to leave you feeling dirty.