Dental Care for Individuals with Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can have unexpected impacts on oral health. Here's what you need to know about the connection between the two.
Individuals with Crohn's disease may experience oral symptoms such as canker sores, inflammation or cracks in the corners of the mouth, and gum inflammation. In some cases, oral Crohn's disease can present as visible bumps and lumps at the back of the throat, swollen lips, skin tags inside the mouth or behind teeth, thickened mucus inside the mouth, abscesses or swellings with discharge, and bad breath.
Research suggests that up to 35% of people diagnosed with IBD may experience 'extra-intestinal manifestations,' including Crohn's disease in the oral cavity. Remarkably, oral Crohn's disease can initially show up without any gut disease.
Maintaining good oral health and communicating with your dentist can help manage and prevent some oral symptoms of Crohn's disease. It's important to keep up with dental cleanings and contact your dentist at least twice a year. You may need to increase your dental treatment to keep your mouth healthy if you have Crohn's disease.
Telling your dentist if you have Crohn's disease is crucial for effectively managing the condition. This allows both you and your treating physician to keep an eye on any related dental and oral concerns. It's also important to inform your dentist if you take medication for Crohn's disease, as this can affect your dental treatment plan.
In more serious cases of oral Crohn's disease or for individuals with extreme swelling, surgery may be necessary. However, this approach isn't common and is generally only considered if other noninvasive treatments don't work.
Studies have shown that individuals with Crohn's disease undergo more dental procedures, such as 65% more removable dentures, 52% more fillings in front teeth, and 46% more endodontic treatment. Special mouthwash or paste for mouth ulcers can be considered as a treatment for canker sores or other oral symptoms of Crohn's disease.
An exclusion diet can be used to identify and reduce food(s) that may worsen swelling in the mouth. Injections into swollen lips or cheeks can be used for cosmetic improvement in cases of oral Crohn's disease.
It's essential to ask your dentist about the connection between Crohn's disease and oral health. Questions to ask might include queries about oral signs or symptoms, frequency of dental cleanings, appropriate mouthwash, toothpaste, floss, toothbrush, and breath freshening methods, as well as any foods or dental products to avoid.
Research indicates a strong connection between IBD and dental conditions like dental caries, infections, and periodontitis. Staying informed and proactive about your oral health can help manage the impacts of Crohn's disease on your mouth.
