What are common oral signs of autoimmune disorders
Autoimmune diseases and syndromes occur when the defense mechanism of our own body fails to recognize itself and attacks itself. This leads to self-destruction of our body’s own cells, causing disease in a healthy individual.
Why autoimmune diseases affect the oral cavity
The oral cavity is vulnerable to autoimmune diseases due to its
- Rich vascular and immune supply
- High cell turnover rate
- Constant exposure to bacterial pathogens
- Presence of salivary glands
Autoimmune activity targets oral epithelium, connective tissue, salivary glands, or basement membrane structures, resulting in chronic inflammation and mucosal breakdown.
Common oral manifestations of autoimmune diseases
- Xerostomia (dry mouth)
- Recurrent aphthous ulcers
- Desquamative gingivitis
- Erythematous or erosive mucosal lesions
- Oral candidiasis
- Burning mouth sensation
- Dysgeusia (altered taste)
Autoimmune diseases affecting oral cavity
Sjögren syndrome
- Severe dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
- Rampant dental caries
- Oral candidiasis
- Atrophic oral mucosa
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Painless oral ulcers
- Erythematous or lichenoid lesions
- Cheilitis
- Secondary infections due to immunosuppressive therapy
Oral Lichen Planus
- Reticular white striations (Wickham striae)
- Erosive or ulcerative lesions
- Burning sensation or pain
- Desquamative gingivitis
Pemphigus vulgaris
- Fragile vesicles that rupture easily
- Painful erosions and ulcers
- Oral lesions often occur before skin involvement
Mucous membrane pemphigoid
- Desquamative gingivitis
- Chronic blistering and erosions
- Scarring in severe cases
Rheumatoid arthritis
- Temporomandibular joint involvement
- Dry mouth
- Periodontal disease association
Impact of immunosuppressive therapy on oral health
Many autoimmune patients receive:
- Corticosteroids
- Methotrexate
- Biologic agents
Oral implications
- Increased risk of opportunistic infections
- Delayed wound healing
- Masking of inflammatory signs
What other autoimmune disorder do you know about?
MBH/AB