Immunosuppressants and dental health

[CrohnsKidMom]

My son has been on MTX since the summer and is doing well. I have noticed however, that it is hard to keep his teeth clean, and I am wondering if it might have something to do with his immune system being suppressed. I've noticed he has been getting orange coloured stains on his front teeth over that last several weeks. Yuk! I have been able to remove most of it when I do his teeth, but within a day it returns. I Googled it-it's plaque! Perhaps he is lacking good bacteria in his mouth which would keep the bad bacteria at bay? We keep very good care of his teeth-brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using a fluoride rinse. He does not drink juice, is not fond of candy, and does not snack often. (He does eat fresh fruit twice a day however, and drinks 2 cups of milk a day.) He has annual check-ups and professional cleanings, and has never had a cavity. Does anyone know why this is happening and if there is a solution?

 

[Farmwife]

Interesting.
I was just looking through this forum for dental pain cause by MTX.
Since starting the shots her teeth and or gums have been bothering her.
Nothing horrible but it didn't start until the shots.
I'll make sure to look at her teeth closer.

 

[my little penguin]

We had that for DS but only when he was EEN and no food.
It resolved with food.
Never had an issue otherwise and he has been on all the meds
Pentasa , 6-mp, Mtx, remicade and now humira .

 

[crohnsinct]

We keep very good care of his teeth-brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using a fluoride rinse. He does not drink juice, is not fond of candy, and does not snack often. (He does eat fresh fruit twice a day however, and drinks 2 cups of milk a day.) He has annual check-ups and professional cleanings, and has never had a cavity.

:worthy:

O has bad plaque but I think that is due to poor habits more than anything else. I can only imagine how frustrating this is for you given how good you are about taking care. Hope you find some answers.

 

[Mehita]

Does pred affect teeth?

 

[DanceMom]

I've noticed this with A for the last 2 years or so, even before starting medication. Her teeth just seem to have a yellow tint to them even directly after a cleaning. We tried cutting out dark juices and soda but it didn't seem to make a difference. My youngest has beautiful white teeth.

 

[CrohnsKidMom]

Thanks for your replies, everyone. My son was on prednisone from Apr to Aug 2013. I don't think that would have an affect on him now, but who knows. He doesn't have any discomfort or bleeding, so I'm at a bit of a loss. I'll call the dentist and see what she has to say. Thanks again!