Causes And Risk Factors Of Periodontitis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Vitamin D and periodontitis may be one surprising link; the one with rheumatoid arthritis is another. Losing teeth, which is a key marker for this condition, might predict the occurrence of rheumatoid arthritis and its severity. Studies indicate the more teeth individuals lose, the greater their risk of rheumatoid arthritis. In another study, individuals with periodontitis ranging from moderate to severe had a greater chance of rheumatoid arthritis; twice the risk, in fact. This was opposed to those who had mild or no gum disease at all. Research suggests the connection between gum diseases and rheumatoid arthritis is more complicated than previous assumptions that involved Sjögren’s syndrome with rheumatoid arthritis diminishing saliva production, leaving it open and vulnerable to diseases.