Crohn's affecting teeth?

[xSeneca]

Hello everyone.

I just had a quick question. Does Crohn's have an impact on the overall health of your teeth? I would think all of the medications do. And I have definitely been on a lot of medication the last 7 months or so. I've noticed multiple cavities form as well as an increase in sensitivity during this period. I've been brushing, flossing and mouth-washing religiously, but it doesn't seem to help. :confused2:

Anyways, I was just curious.

Have a merry Christmas tomorrow!

 

[kossy]

It does. Medication, acid reflux, lack of absorbtion calcium, they all do a number on your teeth.

 

[mickey]

May want to try sensitive toothpaste.

 

[xSeneca]

Yeah, I've been thinking of switching to Sensodyne. I'm using Crest enamel protection now. I just don't wanna keep switching.

 

[mickey]

Sometimes the ingredients in toothpastes can irritate you. The "whitening" toothpastes causes my gums to turn purple/red and canker sores. Can't remember the ingredient, but begins with "s"...you never know. There are many brands of sensitive toothpastes and my dentist said it may take trying a few before you find one that works for you. Feel better!

 

[guest3832]

If your brushing and flossing is great like you say, then I would assume it has something to do with the medications you're on. Many medications cause dry mouth, meaning you have a reduced salivary flow, thus putting you more at risk of cavities. We need saliva to neutralize the acids in our mouths, and saliva contains important minerals like calcium and phosphate.

I would recommend you try a paste called "GC Tooth Mousse." It's a milk based product, and basically just a high concentration of calcium. It takes about at least 6 months of use to be really effective. It can prevent cavities, but it can also reverse "EARLY decay" by allowing the teeth to reabsorb the calcium. It gets applied once, at night, after you've brushed and flossed your teeth. All you have to do is put a small amount on your finger and smear it over the surfaces of the teeth and just leave it there overnight.

 

[toneloc]

Hi Mickey
The ingredient in the toothpaste that causes me issues is sodium laurel sulphate.
(SLS)
Brings my mouth sores out a treat.
Had to look hard to find an alternative & eventually did

 

[Miss Underestimated]

Take lots of calcium and vitamin D, too.

 

[Cupcake]

I noticed my teeth took a turn for the worst after having my last flare up. I tend to blame my dental issues on poor nutrition. Also, for what it's worth, I found the foods that never hurt going down or gave me any pain were all baked goods or candy. Not the ideal diet.

 

[Miss Underestimated]

Me too, Cupcake! I did get to where I can eat some veggies if I cook them til they're mush.

 

[CLynn]

Hate to say it, but yes, I do believe between our intestinal tract not absorbing well, our diet tending towards junk food for easier digestion, and the meds, it DOES effect our teeth. I have had many of mine pulled during the last few years, but I had not heard of that toothpaste that helps with the calcium. Having 2 children probably contributed as well.

 

[Pirate]

The biggest cause for teeth problems is Prednisone. Because of the side effect that it breaks down the calcuim in your system, you will notice more cavities, bleeding of the gums and infection. I had beautiful teeth on the outside but with taking so much Pred it was rotting them out from inside. I had to have them all pulled. Now because of the large weight changes I can even wear dentures.

All the other issues with CD also contributes to it. Take lots of calcium.

 

[David]

Those of you with teeth issues may also want to give our vitamin K2 thread a read.

 

[outlier]

No cavities but bad gingivitis due to all my inflammation.

 

[Misty-Eyed]

I don't have any teeth issues. My teeth are very healthy and I don't have any filling yet, touch wood.

I do, however have bad gum problems. Not overal, but I have very localised deep pocketing. I have to go to a dental hospital in London and I am due to have a load of gum surgery. It's so annoying to get time off work to go to all of my hospital appointments AND dental hospital appointments. I have an appointment of some sort most weeks. Anyway, they always argue about my actual gum diagnosis due to my crohn's.

 

[wolfem]

I just have gingival recession but that is about it. Might be from acid reflux but yeah, I definantly have dental issues.