Ep 118: More Than a Smile: Oral Health in AiArthritis Diseases

Oral health is often treated as optional or cosmetic, but for people living with AiArthritis diseases, it can have a real impact on pain, fatigue, nutrition, and quality of life. In this episode, Leila and Bridget explore why oral health deserves a place in routine disease management and why so many patients are never told their symptoms are disease related. The episode looks at how autoimmune conditions and common medications can affect the mouth, from dry mouth and gum inflammation to delayed healing and increased infection risk. It also breaks down the connection between oral health, the immune system, and systemic inflammation, helping patients better understand why issues can show up even when oral hygiene is strong. Join us on this episode to hear practical, gentle strategies for protecting oral health when saliva is reduced or sensitivity is high. The discussion emphasizes adaptation over perfection and reinforces that oral health challenges are not personal failures, but part of living with complex chronic disease.   Episode Highlights: Why oral health is often overlooked and why it matters in autoimmune disease How inflammation, medications, and reduced saliva affect the mouth The link between oral health and conditions like Sjögren’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma Gentle, realistic strategies to protect teeth and gums without causing more harm   Links & Resources Go With Us! To ACR 2025: Oral Health: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5XlwG4cNXo See more about co-existing conditions, disease management & more www.aiarthritis.org/patientjourney Have questions about this episode or topics you want to hear us bring to the table? Email us at [email protected]  Donate to Support the Show: www.aiarthritis.org/donate   Follow AiArthritis on all social media platforms @IFAiArthritis Sign up for our Monthly AiArthritis Voices 360 Talk Show newsletter! HERE   Connect with our Co-Hosts:   Leila is the Health Education Manager at the International Foundation for AiArthritis. She is a person living with Lupus and Sjögren’s disease. She is passionate about inclusion and diversity in health education and meeting individuals where they are at in order to learn in a way that resonates with them.  Connect with Leila: Tiktok: @Lupuslifestyle.lei   Bridget Dandaraw-Seritt founded a patient based organization that advocates for access to compassionate care and provides community support. She’s a published author on therapeutic cannabis, presents at medical conferences, and is engaged in the policy making process.  Connect with Bridget: Facebook: Advocates for Compassionate Therapy Now