Oral health and Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), is an umbrella term used to describe disorders that involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Types of IBD include Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Due to the chronic inflammation eventually damaging the GI tract, the resulting symptoms are painful.
A blood test can detect any indication of inflammation. A stool test can check whether there is any infection in your bowel. Crohn’s disease can take place anywhere along the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. The most common area targeted is in the small intestine, just before the colon (ileum).
Healthy Tissue and the Inflammation
These areas affected show up as patches of irritation next to healthy tissue and the inflammation may reach through multiple wall layers within the intestine. Conversely, Ulcerative Colitis is localized to the colon and rectum.
Unlike the patchy areas seen in Crohn’s, the damaged areas in Colitis are seen in a continuous pattern, typically moving upward from the rectum to the colon. Colitis is also only found in the innermost wall of the colon as opposed to affecting multiple layers.
These diseases are believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and non-genetic, or environmental factors. The result is an immune response that when triggered by environmental factors attacks the cells in the GI tract. The symptoms of IBD are similar between both Crohn’s and Colitis and can be misdiagnosed.
Symptoms:
- Persistent diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding/bloody stools
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
IBD is different from, IBS or Celiac Disease
IBD is different from, IBS or Celiac disease. The similarity in symptoms can cause misdiagnosis which is why it’s important to seek a physician for a correct diagnosis and treatment options. Now that we know how IBD works, how can it affect our oral health? IBD can have several oral manifestations:
– Xerostomia (Dry Mouth): The salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist and the pH of the oral cavity balanced. This can result in rampant decay.
– Aphthous Ulcers: Also known as canker sores. Individuals with IBD may present with frequent or multiple ulcers. These lesions can make oral care more uncomfortable.
– Mucosal Tags: Similar to skin tags, these can be seen as a result of Crohn’s Disease. They may appear on the inner cheek, and can be visualized by your dentist or hygienist.
– Gingivitis: Reversible form of periodontal disease, is treated with good home care and professional hygiene visits.
Xerostomia
Depending on which manifestations you’re experiencing your doctor and hygienist will tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs. For example, if you’re experiencing frequent aphthous ulcers, you may be prescribed a steroid cream to decrease length and frequency.
Or if you suffer from xerostomia, we’ll discuss options to balance pH and decrease your risk for decay. As with all autoimmune diseases, the healthier we can keep your mouth the less effect it will have on your immune response. If you would like to discuss the impact your IBD may be having on your oral health, please feel free to mention it at your next visit!
References
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