Mouth and teeth health with arthritis 

How can arthritis affect my mouth and teeth? 

Some types of inflammatory arthritis and autoimmune conditions can affect your mouth and teeth. Some medicines used to treat these conditions can also affect your oral health. This may increase your risk of problems such as gum disease, dry mouth, tooth decay, mouth ulcers or oral infections. 

Researchers are still studying the links between inflammatory arthritis and oral health, and some of these links aren't yet fully understood. 

This page explains how different conditions and medicines can affect your mouth and teeth, the practical steps you can take to help keep them healthy, and when to seek advice. 

How can my condition affect my mouth and teeth? 

Different conditions can affect your mouth and teeth in different ways. 

Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis 

• Rheumatoid arthritis is linked with a higher risk of gum disease.  
• Arthritis in your hands or wrists can also make brushing and cleaning between your teeth more difficult. 

Sjögren disease 

• Sjögren disease commonly causes dry mouth.  
• Because saliva helps protect your teeth and gums, this can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and oral infections such as thrush. 

Systemic sclerosis 

• Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) can cause skin tightening that makes it difficult to open your mouth fully, which can make brushing and dental treatment more difficult.  

Lupus and other autoimmune conditions

• Autoimmune conditions such as lupus can cause some people to develop mouth ulcers, soreness or inflammation, particularly during flare-ups. 

Can arthritis medicines affect my mouth and teeth?

Yes. Some medicines used to treat inflammatory arthritis and autoimmune conditions can affect your mouth and teeth. 

Medicines that reduce the activity of your immune system can make infections in your mouth more likely. These include biologic medicines and other disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Some medicines may cause a dry mouth, while corticosteroids can increase the risk of oral thrush. 

Always tell your dentist about your arthritis or autoimmune condition and any medicines you take, including biologic medicines, DMARDs, corticosteroids and blood-thinning medicines. 

Regular dental check-ups can help identify problems early, particularly if you have a dry mouth or take medicines that affect your immune system. 

Arthritis treatments 

• DMARDs and biologics 
  DMARDs and biologics treat the underlying cause and reduce inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. 
• Steroids 
  Also known as corticosteroids, steroids are treatments that help reduce inflammation. 

What should I know before surgery?

Looking after your mouth and teeth is especially important if you're preparing for surgery, including a joint replacement. Your healthcare team may recommend treating any active dental infections before your operation to reduce the risk of complications. 

Dental treatment after joint surgery

Most people with a joint replacement do not need antibiotics before routine dental treatment, but your dentist should know about your medical history and the medicines you take. 

What if I'm finding it difficult to get dental care?

Looking after your mouth and teeth isn't always straightforward. Some people find it difficult to get an NHS dental appointment, while others face challenges because of pain, fatigue, limited mobility or the cost of treatment. 

If you're finding it hard to get the dental care you need, tell your GP, rheumatology team or dentist. They may be able to help you find local NHS dental services or, if needed, specialist dental care. 

You can also contact NHS 111 in the UK if you need an urgent dental appointment. Your local hospital may also have an emergency dental helpline. 

When should I seek dental advice?

Don't delay seeking advice if you have: 

• bleeding gums 
• swelling around your teeth or gums 
• loose teeth 
• persistent mouth ulcers 
• signs of infection. 

How can I look after my mouth and teeth?

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth every day. 
• If you have a dry mouth, sip water regularly and ask your dentist or healthcare team about saliva substitutes. Your dentist may also recommend fluoride mouthwash or prescribe high-fluoride toothpaste. 
• If arthritis in your hands or wrists makes brushing or cleaning between your teeth difficult, try an electric toothbrush, a larger handle or grip, interdental brushes or a floss holder. 
• If you have limited mouth opening, ask your dentist about techniques or adjustments that may make brushing and dental treatment easier. 
• Limit sugary food and drinks, especially between meals. 
• If you smoke, try to stop. 
• Visit your dentist regularly. If you have a dry mouth, you may need more frequent check-ups. 
• Tell your dental team about your arthritis, medicines and any pain, stiffness or fatigue that might affect treatment. 
• If you're unsure whether dental treatment could affect your arthritis or medicines, ask your dentist, pharmacist or healthcare team. 

If you have concerns about your mouth or teeth, don't wait until your next routine appointment. Your dentist, GP or rheumatology team can advise if your symptoms could be related to your condition or the medicines you take. 

Sources

Last review date: September 2026 

Next review date: September 2029