Sjögren's syndrome is not a risk factor for periodontal disease: a systematic review

Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2019 May-Jun;37 Suppl 118(3):225-233. Epub 2019 Aug 28.

Abstract

Objectives: Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disorder causing irreversible damage to the exocrine glands. Evidence whether SS patients are at a higher risk to develop periodontal disease is conflicting. Therefore, we systematically reviewed the literature on the prevalence of periodontal disease in patients with SS.

Methods: Searches were performed in MEDLINE and CENTRAL databases on prevalence of periodontal diseases in SS. Meta-analyses were performed for gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), DMFT and DMFS (Decayed Missing Filled Teeth, respectively, Surfaces).

Results: Out of 512 studies, 10 studies were eligible for quantitative synthesis. Meta-analyses of the data indicated that in SS patients CAL, GI, PPD and PI are comparable to controls. DMFT and DMFS values were higher in SS patients than controls.

Conclusions: No significant differences in the GI, PI, CAL, and PPD were observed in patients with SS compared to controls. These results indicate that there is no evidence of a higher risk for periodontal disease in patients with SS, while SS patients are more susceptible to caries compared to non-SS patients.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Dental Plaque Index
  • Humans
  • Periodontal Diseases* / etiology
  • Periodontal Index
  • Risk Factors
  • Sjogren's Syndrome* / complications