Scleroderma Types Systemic Symptoms Dental

Systemic Sclerosis (SSc, Scleroderma) Dental Involvement

Overview

Systemic sclerosis (SSc), commonly known as scleroderma, can cause numerous dental problems when it affects the face and mouth. Skin tightening can cause the mouth to become smaller (microstomia), as well as TMJ and trigeminal neuralgia. It is often accompanied by dryness of the eyes, skin and mucous membranes (Sjogren's syndrome) and the resulting dry mouth (xerostomia) may result in increased cavities, gum disease, and difficulty chewing and swallowing. (Also see Scleroderma Dental Involvement, What is Scleroderma?, Types of Scleroderma, and Systemic Sclerosis)

Oral manifestations of Systemic Sclerosis and Correlation with anti-Topoisomerase I Antibodies (SCL-70). Oral symptoms have been frequent in patients with Scleroderma, SCL -70 positive but not statistically significant difference. PubMed, Med Arch. (Also see Antibodies)

Oral Care

Care for systemic scleroderma mouth involvement should include frequent dental hygiene visits, daily mouth exercises, monthly measuring of mouth opening, treatment of dry mouth if necessary, and meticulous attention to flossing and brushing. (Also see: What is Scleroderma?)

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