Patients with Sjögren’s disease may face an increased risk of tooth loss, according to a new systematic review and meta-analysis.
Because Sjögren’s disease involves lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands—especially the salivary and lacrimal glands—patients often present with oral health issues such as hyposalivation, xerostomia, dental caries, and periodontal disease. However, few comprehensive analyses have examined the association between Sjögren’s disease and tooth loss.
In a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression, investigators searched 1,264 records across five databases and gray literature to assess the burden of oral health issues in 21 studies involving 3,702 patients with Sjögren’s disease and healthy controls.
The meta-analysis found that individuals with Sjögren’s disease experienced significantly greater tooth loss compared with the healthy controls (mean difference = 2.77, 95% confidence interval = 2.05–3.50). Meta-regression revealed that 97.8% of heterogeneity could be attributed to country income level. Although the risk of bias in the included studies was generally satisfactory, comparability was a common limitation. As a result, the overall of the evidence was rated low.
The investigators pointed to a central role of dental professionals in the early detection and management of oral complications in Sjögren’s disease. Proactive dental care may help reduce the adverse oral outcomes associated with the condition.
The study authors declared no conflicts of interest.
Source: Journal of Dentistry
