Association of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Dental Health - A Mini Review

Abstract

Autoimmune disorders represent a cluster of diseases related to dysregulation of the immune system or misrecognition of self from non-self. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition involving the joints. It is one of the most common forms of inflammatory arthritis reported globally. The incidence rate of RA is found to be the highest among middle-aged women. There happens to be a close relationship between RA and dental health. The inflammatory processes triggered by microbes and other endogenous factors affects the bone health resulting in the resorption of bones. This condition is observed in aggressive and chronic periodontitis. The main objective of the present literature review was to evaluate the association of rheumatoid arthritis with dental health such as gingivitis, tooth loss and periodontitis. Furthermore, the present literature review throws light on the common markers which might be associated with both the disease conditions. The current review identified novel markers that were associated with rheumatoid arthritis which were implicated in dental health also. Hence management of rheumatoid arthritis might as well reduce the damage caused by bone resorption and could aid in the prevention of premature tooth loss.