Kidney
Disease
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Kidney diseases can affect the soft oral tissues like your gingiva (gums) and other parts of your mouth. Related conditions like end stage renal disease — and its treatment — are also known to contribute to dry mouth, weak tooth enamel, abnormal tooth development, and changes in saliva pH.
The more aggressive the kidney disease is, the more likely you are to have a severe form of gum disease.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the select medical conditions where individuals are likely to notice a negative effect on their teeth and gums, as opposed to the other way around. CKD attacks tissues like the bone and gums around teeth, creating an environment where periodontitis can thrive.
When people with CKD have missing teeth, it’s highly indicative that they at least one point in time also had a periodontal infection.
Diabetes-induced kidney disease could potentially become more aggressive, assuming co-existing gum disease (due to the effect that periodontitis has on blood glucose levels.)
If you’re currently on dialysis or taking blood thinners, be sure to let your dentist know as it can interfere with your ability to receive dental care within that period of time. Routine preventative cleanings are typically safe and should be scheduled every six months.
Health experts suspect that treatment and maintenance of periodontal disease can actively reduce the incidence and progression of chronic kidney disease.
If you have kidney disease, it’s important to maintain regular preventative care with your dental team. Not only can gum disease and tooth loss be avoided, but additional steps can be taken to address dry mouth and consequently future tooth decay.
Prevention is key. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with kidney disease or some type of renal disorder, talk to your dentist about developing a customized preventative plan to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.