Link between periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis

Dr. Maryam Brazdo regularly educates patients on the link between inflammation in the mouth and gums and total body health. And new research points to the link between inflammation in the gums characteristic of periodontal disease and inflammation of the joints characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis.

Scientists now know that periodontitis shares pathogenic mechanisms with rheumatoid arthritis and say it may trigger arthritis onset. In a new study, researchers performed joint and dental examinations to isolate  Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) antibodies as well as inflammatory microenvironments in early and chronic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

RA patients showed a marked inflammatory profile in all microenvironments, including oral, despite routine dental care. P. gingivalis antibodies can be considered as biomarkers for rheumatologists in identifying those who may benefit from periodontal treatment.

If you’re concerned about inflammation in your joints, look also to your oral care for ways to manage inflammation. Contact your us today for more information!