What You Need to Know This World Lupus Day

May 02 , 2025

Living with lupus means managing a range of symptoms that affect various systems in the body—but oral health is often overlooked. As we recognize World Lupus Day, it’s important to raise awareness about how lupus impacts the mouth and the steps patients can take to safeguard their smiles.

Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. This can cause inflammation and damage to the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs—including the oral cavity. Many people living with lupus experience oral symptoms that, if left untreated, can significantly affect their quality of life.

Common Oral Symptoms of Lupus
Oral ulcers are one of the most frequently reported symptoms in lupus patients. These ulcers, or sores, often appear on the roof of the mouth, cheeks, or lips and may be painless or uncomfortable. In some cases, they’re mistaken for canker sores, but recurring ulcers can signal a lupus flare-up.

Other symptoms can include dry mouth (xerostomia), which may be caused by the condition itself or by medications used to manage lupus. A lack of saliva increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Some patients may also experience increased sensitivity, burning sensations, or inflammation in the gums.

How Lupus Treatments Affect Oral Health
Immunosuppressive medications and corticosteroids—often prescribed to manage lupus—can impact oral health. These medications may make patients more susceptible to oral infections like candidiasis (oral thrush), or slow down healing after dental procedures.

Additionally, patients with lupus may develop secondary conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, another autoimmune disease that causes dryness in the mouth and eyes. This makes regular oral care even more critical.

Oral Care Tips for People Living with Lupus
Maintaining oral health with lupus requires a few extra precautions:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dry mouth and stimulate saliva flow.

• Use fluoride products: Toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride can help protect against cavities.

• Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes: These can further dry out the mouth.

• Stick to regular dental checkups: Let your dentist know about your lupus diagnosis and any medications you're taking. This allows them to tailor your care and monitor for oral complications.

• Report changes early: If you notice new sores, sensitivity, or pain, don’t wait—early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms.

When to See a Dentist
Patients with lupus should ideally see a dentist at least twice a year, and more often if symptoms persist. Oral exams can help identify lupus-related issues early and keep small problems from becoming serious ones. Coordination between your dentist and rheumatologist or family doctor can also ensure a more comprehensive care approach.

Supporting Lupus Awareness
World Lupus Day is about more than awareness—it’s about advocacy, education, and support. Dental professionals can play a crucial role by understanding the challenges lupus patients face and offering compassionate, informed care.

By staying informed and proactive, individuals with lupus can maintain strong oral health and a better quality of life.