Gum disease and rheumatoid arthritis

A recent study has shown how a herbal mouthwash can help periodontal health as well as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).

This most interesting triple-blinded controlled trial included 45 patients diagnosed with RA and chronic periodontitis (CP). The patients were randomised into three treatment groups.

Group 1 received scaling and root planing with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash.

Group 2 received scaling and root planing with a mouthwash containing clove oil, mentha oil, eucalyptol oil, thymol oil and tea tree oil, as well as curcumin.

Group 3 received scaling and root planing only.

Patients in groups 1 and 2 were instructed to use 10ml of their respective mouthwash undiluted for one minute twice per day, 30 minutes after brushing their teeth; the treatment period lasted for six weeks. Each patient also received nonsurgical periodontal therapy, involving mouth scaling and root planing.

RA disease activity was assessed using blood markers such as ESR, CRP (serum-C-reactive protein) and rheumatoid factor (RF). Periodontal disease activity was assessed using plaque index, clinical attachment level (CAL) and pocket depth (PD), all of which were recorded at baseline and six weeks thereafter.

Results

Blood inflammatory markers: A significant reduction in ESR, CRP and RF occurred in all groups, however the mean reductions were found to be highest in Group 2.

Dental clinical markers: A significant reduction in plaque index scores was observed in all treatment groups. The patients in Group 2 demonstrated the highest percentage mean reduction of plaque index scores.

The researchers concluded that a mouthwash containing essential oils and Curcumin used alongside nonsurgical periodontal therapy signicantly reduced activity of RF and CP.

It is also important to remember that gut microbiome is also a vital factor in treating gum disease and autoimmune diseases. Also note that CO Q10 rubbed into the gums of any patient with gingivitis yields excellent results.