Does Having an Immune Problem Change How You Need to Care for Your Teeth?
Posted on 8/9/2021 by Platte Valley Dental Care
Immune system disorders cause the immune system in your body to either underperform or work harder than it should; if the immune system is overactive, the body attacks and damages its own immune system. An immune deficiency means that you have a higher risk of getting sick as the immune system is not able to fight the bacteria and viruses found in the body. Blood tests can reveal if you have an immune disorder, and by looking at the white blood cell count and immunoglobulins, doctors can determine if you have an immune problem. Having immune system issues may change how you care for your teeth.
Caring For Your Teeth With a Compromised Immune System
If you have an autoimmune disease or an immune system dysregulation, it can affect your oral health in a variety of ways. People with autoimmune diseases tend to have drier mouths. Autoimmune diseases can affect the salivary glands. If the salivary gland does not produce saliva, the mouth becomes dry and susceptible to tooth decay. Saliva washes away bacteria, sugar, and acids that harm the enamel of your teeth. If you have an immune problem, make sure you drink plenty of water, brush your teeth regularly, and use a fluoridated alcohol-free mouthwash.
Additionally, you could be taking medication to control your immune system that may have adverse effects on your mouth. For instance, certain medications used to treat autoimmune diseases can lead to oral health issues. You could be at a higher risk for thrush or even oral cancer. Take care of your teeth by making dental appointments every six months.
Make an Appointment Today
Make sure to prioritize your appointments to our office. Please inform our hygienists about your immune problem so they can be acutely aware of your needs and make suggestions to help keep your mouth healthy. We want to help you have the best oral health care possible despite any immune problems.
Office Hours Monday: 9 AM to 5 PM Tuesday: 8 AM to 5 PM Wednesday: 8 AM to 5 PM Thursday: 8 AM to 5 PM Friday: CLOSED
Dental Blog | Platte Valley Dental Care | Platte City Dentist Staci Blaha, DDS and Trent Blaha, DDS have created this informative blog to help educate the community of Platte City, MO Did you like a topic? Please contact us today! Platte Valley Dental Care, 1316 Plaza Court, Platte City, MO 64079-7628 ~ (816)858-2027 ~ pvdentalcare.com ~ 5/28/2023 ~ Page Terms:dentist ~
Immune system disorders cause the immune system in your body to either underperform or work harder than it should; if the immune system is overactive, the body attacks and damages its own immune system. An immune deficiency means that you have a higher risk of getting sick as the immune system is not able to fight the bacteria and viruses found in the body. Blood tests can reveal if you have an immune disorder, and by looking at the white blood cell count and immunoglobulins, doctors can determine if you have an immune problem. Having immune system issues may change how you care for your teeth.