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Receding gums (first post from a new member)

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Sjogren's Syndrome
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Posted 9/8/2012 3:06 AM (GMT 0)
Hi everyone,

I'm new here. 34, suffering with fibromyalgia since age 12 and recently diagnosed with SS. I've been going through your posts and this seems like a wonderful, supportive and generally upbeat group of people. I'm very happy to join you (though obviously not happy about the reasons we're all here!).

I've got a question about receding gums. Dentists tell me I've got excellent oral hygiene, however I've noticed my gums receding drastically and also bleeding. I have a lot of swelling in the back of my mouth, which I think could be the salivary glands, and this is annoying and painful as I grind my teeth at night and, during the day, often accidentally bite down on the swollen areas.

Does anyone else have these problems? Are they typically related to Sjogren's? Do you have any suggestions on what to do about it? I've had a splint made to stop me grinding my teeth, but I find it prevents me breathing well and causes my throat to dry out at night.

Thanks everyone, I look forward to your responses.
Posted 9/8/2012 5:17 AM (GMT 0)
I was concerned about what looked to me like receding gums, even though my dentist kept telling me everything is fine. So I got a second opinion from a periodontist...the person who *really* knows the details of gums!! Maybe you should have periodontal consult?

It seems to me they may be able to help determine what is swelling and what isn't -- but overall I'm not sure who the "expert" on Sjogren's is supposed to be. Have you talked to your rheumotologist about your mouth issues? Maybe rheumy then periodontist?

Sorry, no better ideas...maybe someone else has some thoughts on this. Hope you feel better soon!
Posted 9/8/2012 6:31 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks Lynnwood,

I've never even heard of a periodontist! I will definitely bring it up at the rheumatology clinic. Being on a low income, I don't have a regular dentist but instead see the final year dentistry students at the free clinic. Probably not the best for a specific problem like this.
Posted 9/25/2012 10:05 PM (GMT 0)
I have the receding gums and use a braun electric toothbrush (soft) to brush and stimulate the gums. I also use Biotene mouthwash to increase the enzymes and moisten the mouth. They make a gum (as much as I hate gum) that is very effective when your somewhere that is too inconvenient to brush.

You need to drink a lot of water or deal with a lot of dentist bills. You need to floss before you go to bed and use the biotene mouth wash to help keep you mouth moist when you sleep. My gums are not perfect ...but they are 50% better than they were a year ago.

Be sure that you are getting the proper nutrition and have the doctor so a CBC to see if your blood is off. Fish oil, Evening in Primrose, and turmeric curcumin are also very good supplements.

Good Luck and take care!
Posted 9/28/2014 12:54 AM (GMT 0)
Angelsway - very helpful advice - thanks!
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