Exploring the Oral Health Impact of Psoriasis
This month, we will focus on a well-known autoimmune disease that affects 8 million Americans and more than 125 million individuals worldwide: psoriasis. Psoriasis occurs when skin cells reproduce too quickly due to an immune response. When the body fails to shed these excess cells, it leads to red, thickened, and scaly patches on the skin.
Psoriasis and Oral Health
Psoriasis is a genetic autoimmune disorder, but factors such as illness, stress, and alcohol can worsen it. Occasionally, lesions may form in the mouth if the overproducing cells spread to the oral cavity. While these lesions are rare, they can appear on the lips and may serve as an early sign of psoriasis. If you have already received a psoriasis diagnosis and notice lesions in your mouth, consult your dentist or dermatologist.
There are five different types of psoriasis:
1. Plaque Psoriasis
This is one of the most common types. It features scaly patches of skin that can be itchy and may crack and bleed.
2. Guttate Psoriasis
This type presents small round lesions and usually occurs in childhood. It can sometimes be triggered by a strep infection.
3. Inverse Psoriasis
Often found in combination with other types, this form presents shiny lesions in skin folds, such as behind the knees and in the underarms.
4. Pustular Psoriasis
Typically found on the hands and feet, this form features white pustules filled with white blood cells due to the immune response. Although it resembles an infection, it is not one
5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis
This rare and severe form presents extreme redness all over the body, often causing itchiness and pain, and can lead to skin peeling. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms, as erythrodermic psoriasis can be life-threatening. It often occurs in individuals with uncontrolled plaque psoriasis.
Can Psoriasis Impact Your Gums?
Research linking psoriasis to oral health is still developing. However, a study in Norway found that 24% of participants with psoriasis had moderate to severe periodontitis, compared to only 10% of the control group without psoriasis.
The study suggested that the connection between the two conditions likely stems from the immune response. While no definitive link exists yet, further research is needed to understand the relationship between periodontal disease and psoriasis.
Dealing with various forms of psoriasis can be challenging, but ongoing research offers hope for better understanding and treatment. If a connection is established between psoriasis and periodontal disease, we aim to provide effective treatments that alleviate symptoms of both conditions.
In the meantime, maintaining good oral health may help improve symptoms for those suffering from psoriasis or any autoimmune disease. At Ballard Dental Arts, we strive to provide the best care possible, considering how we can enhance your overall health.
If you have psoriasis and would like to discuss ways to improve your oral health, please bring it up at your next visit.
References
Colgate: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/immune-disorders/how-to-treat-your-psoriasis-mouth-symptoms-0715
National Psoriasis Foundation https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/gum-disease-more-likely-in-people-with-psoriasis
NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4280688/
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840