The Unexpected Link Between Dental Implants and Rheumatoid Arthritis


Introduction

Dental implants have become a commonplace procedure these days. They are the most sought-after tooth replacement options. At the same time, we have seen a rise in autoimmune diseases. Rheumatoid Arthritis or RA is amongst the more common autoimmune diseases.

What is the link between Dental Implants and Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Dental Implants require that one has good oral hygiene, a healthy jawbone, good structural integrity to support the implants, and physical health which can permit good bone healing. Rheumatoid Arthritis or RA leads to systemic inflammation. It can cause worsening of gum disease, can weaken the jawbone, and lead to other dental health issues. On one hand, RA can be a precursor to dental health issues while on the other hand, it can interfere with the treatment of dental issues.

Wait before you think that – you are not eligible for dental implants if you have RA. This is not true. People with Rheumatoid Arthritis can have successful dental implant procedures with uneventful sequelae. There are many studies that have shown that people with RA and even those who have other connective tissue disorders along with RA have high success rates for implant survival.

Meet your dentist and explain your history so that adequate preoperative preparations can be made and steps are taken for effective healing post implants. Modern science and medicine can do wonders for you!

Let’s understand this disease before you understand how to deal with its effects, how to maintain good oral hygiene despite RA, and how you can get dental implants without them failing.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

This is an autoimmune disorder affecting the bones, cartilage, as well as other body tissues. Autoimmune disease means that your body’s immune system starts attacking the body’s tissues. It leads to chronic inflammation that can affect and damage the joints, skin, eyes, heart, lungs, and blood vessels.

Apart from other health complications caused by RA, it can affect oral health leading to serious concerns. This is why it is so important to understand this condition, its treatment, and its management for the success of dental treatments including dental implants. Many new treatments are available for this disorder. 

These are some of the scenarios where this procedure may be recommended by the dentists

What causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The triggers behind why the body’s immune system acts this way and leads to Rheumatoid Arthritis are still not fully understood. Antibodies produced by the immune system start attacking tissues that line the joints.

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