Loosing teeth
Hello, I have lost 5 teeth in 18 months of taking methotrexate(6x 2.5mg) a week. I'm 66 years old Male. I have serum negative RA. Mouth ulcers are marginal I take 1mg folate a day. My mouth and teeth are uncomfortable all day. Whats going on.
I lost almost all my teeth over a period of like 12 years or so. I ended up with about four a half left so I finally just said pull 'em all. I started with dentures, which were pretty awful, not going to lie, but then I basically took out a loan the size of a mortgage to get implants which are great but took me literally 5 years to pay off. They were worth it, for sure, but that's not for everyone. Plus, if I had to go back, I'd tell the docs no when they told me to take all that prednisone in my case! Also when I take a lot of prednisone, the candida in my mouth acts up giving me sores and those are awful, like you said! You are not alone! Keep on keepin 'on, DPM Hi,
! I am so sorry you are dealing with dental woes on top of your RA. Unfortunately, many people with RA also deal with oral health issues, for a few possible reasons. One is the side effect of medications used to treat RA. And another is a secondary condition that likes to tag along with RA called Sjogren's. I am by no means suggesting you have Sjogren's, but I wanted to mention it, just in case. Here's some information about it as well -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/oral-issues-with-ra.
One of our health leaders wrote about her dental issues and what she's done to slow the damage done to her teeth here -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/tips-for-healthy-teeth. Check out the many member comments at the end of the piece, where members share their tips for maintaining their dental health.
I do hope your doctors and your dentist are aware of your issues and are working with you to protect your remaining teeth as much as possible.
I know dealing with yet another health challenge is a real pain (no pun intended), but please know you're not alone here. Many people can relate to what you are going through, so don't hesitate to ask more questions or leave comments. This community is pretty great and there are people willing to offer tips, support, or just a listening ear (listening eyes?? what do you call it in an online space?).
Best, Erin, Team Member.
