Preidl et al. [16] report a case of osteonecrosis of the jaw in a patient with CD after a course of bisphosphonate therapy and current treatment with Adalimumab. In other case reports, some correlation between patients with osteonecrosis of the jaw and biologic therapy can be seen [35]. It is still unclear whether biologic therapy interferes with bone physiology, bone turnover, and long-term wound repair. Finally, biologic therapy is one of the most effective and accepted therapies for CD. The most widely used are Adalimumab, infliximab, and ustekinumab [11,13,15,16,24,26,27,28,31].
They are usually on the inside of the lips, cheeks, and gums. Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory intestinal condition that can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract. It is characterized by its clinical heterogeneity and irregularities in its course. The etiology and pathogenesis are not well established, so it is difficult to establish an early diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. The objective of this systematic review was to present a qualitative synthesis of the studies referring to the oral manifestations of CD.
If you suffer from Crohn’s disease, you may be at a higher risk of developing gum disease. This is because Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory condition that can affect the entire body, including the mouth. It is important to be aware of the potential link between Crohn’s disease and gum disease so that you can take steps to protect your oral health.
What is Crohn’s-related gum disease?
Crohn’s disease seems to affect men and women at similar rates. People of northern European or central European Jewish (Ashkenazi) descent are at highest risk. People with Crohn’s disease can have intense symptoms, followed by periods of no symptoms that may last for weeks or years. The symptoms depend on where the disease happens and how serious it is. These drugs also reduce inflammation, but they target your immune system, which produces the substances that cause inflammation. For some people, a combination of these drugs works better than one drug alone.
You could have periods of symptoms that can last days, weeks, or months, followed by periods of remission that can last days, weeks, or years. Whether you use a smartphone app or a paper notebook, keeping track of your symptoms can help you recognize flare-ups early on and figure out what might trigger them. It can also help your doctor understand what your condition looks like between visits.
Crohn’s-related gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums and other structures supporting the teeth. It is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily, as well as gum recession and tooth loss. People with Crohn’s disease may be more susceptible to developing gum disease due to the systemic inflammation associated with their condition.
Another common side effect of Crohn’s is mouth ulcers (aka canker sores). Oral thrush is a painful form of a mouth ulcer, caused by a yeast infection. Thrush ulcers appear raised and whitish and can cause dry mouth. Some people diagnosed with IBD have reported developing oral thrush as a result of their treatment medication, whereas other mouth ulcers are caused by Crohn’s disease itself. Periodontitis (per-e-o-don-TIE-tis), also called gum disease, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue around teeth. Without treatment, periodontitis can destroy the bone that supports your teeth.
How can Crohn’s disease impact gum health?
Common trouble spots are between the lower lip and gums, under or on the edges or base of the tongue, and inside the cheeks. If you or a loved one has Crohn’s disease and are dealing with mouth sores, remember that you’re not alone. There are treatments available, and with the help of a dedicated healthcare team, you can manage these symptoms effectively. Always consult with your IBD healthcare team or a dental professional if you experience persistent or painful mouth sores. It’s no secret that Crohn’s disease can be a major pain for your bowels — but it can also cause symptoms in areas outside the digestive tract.
- Inflammation: The inflammation in the body caused by Crohn’s disease can also affect the gums, making them more prone to infection and disease.
- Medication: Some medications used to treat Crohn’s disease can have side effects that impact oral health, such as dry mouth or changes in the composition of saliva.
- Nutritional deficiencies: People with Crohn’s disease may have difficulty absorbing nutrients from food, which can lead to deficiencies that affect gum health.
How to prevent and manage Crohn’s-related gum disease
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for preventing gum disease and catching any issues early.
- Inform your dentist: Make sure to inform your dentist about your Crohn’s disease so they can provide personalized care and monitor your oral health closely.
By taking proactive steps to protect your oral health, you can reduce your risk of developing Crohn’s-related gum disease and maintain a healthy smile. Remember to consult with your healthcare providers for personalized advice and treatment options.
