Title: Dental anamnesis of patients with idiopathic rheumatoid arthritis
Abstract:
Objective: There is a global increase in the incidence of idiopathic rheumatoid arthritis (IRA). This condition involves various organs and systems in pathological processes, including the maxillofacial region. Specifically, the pathological process may affect the temporomandibular joints, salivary glands, teeth, and periodontal tissues. The aim of our study is to examine the dental history of children and adolescents with dental-maxillary system pathologies who are diagnosed with IRA.
Methods: A collection of anamnesis data was conducted among 307 children and adolescents aged 5–16 years (11,08±3,11). The diagnosis of idiopathic rheumatoid arthritis (IRA) was established by specialized physicians. Results: Among the examined contingent, 24 individuals (7,82%) did not report complaints related to the dental-maxillary system. The presence of decayed teeth was noted in 204 patients (66,45%). Periodic dryness of the lips was reported by 178 patients (57,98%). Dry mouth (especially in the morning or after physical exertion) was experienced by 127 individuals (41,37%). Periodic pain and discomfort in the temporomandibular joint area were reported by 38 patients (12,38%). Gingival bleeding during tooth brushing was noted in 98 children (34,39%). External examination of the maxillofacial area in patients with JRA revealed disproportion in the lower third of the face (a V-shaped narrowed or pointed chin, sometimes protruding angles of the mandible, or a large nose resembling a "bird-like face") in 66,45% cases (204 individuals). This is a typical feature characteristic of this somatic pathology.
Conclusion: Studies have shown that in patients with JRA, in most cases, habitus has certain signs characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis. Dry mouth may indicate salivary gland reactivity. Potential involvement of the temporomandibular joint suggests polyarticular reactivity of the organism. The findings serve as prognostic indicators of IRA development in children and can be used by pediatricians for early diagnosis praecox.
