Your Jacksonville FL dentist regularly shares information on the link between inflammation in the mouth and gums and total body wellness. Now, new research points to the link between inflammation in the gums and inflammation of the joints characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis.

Scientists now believe that periodontitis shares pathogenic mechanisms with rheumatoid arthritis and say it may trigger arthritis onset. Researchers performed joint and dental examinations to isolate  Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) antibodies as well as inflammatory microenvironments in early and chronic rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed a marked inflammatory profile in all microenvironments, including oral, despite routine dental care. P. gingivalis antibodies can be considered as biomarkers for rheumatologists in identifying those who may benefit from periodontal treatment.

The link between oral wellness and total body health is clear and consistent. If you’re concerned about gingivitis and inflammation in your mouth and gums, contact your Jacksonville FL dentist for information on periodontal care today!

Reference:
International & American Associations for Dental Research. (2015, March 12). Inflammation in mouth, joints in rheumatoid arthritis. ScienceDaily. Retrieved March 13, 2015 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/03/150312123526.htm