*Updated September 2026
Key takeaways about maintaining oral health with arthritis:
- Many people diagnosed with arthritis find it difficult to effectively care for their teeth and gums, putting them at a higher risk of developing oral health diseases like periodontitis (gum disease).
- A good oral health hygiene routine is possible by choosing tools that are meant to reduce strain on the hands and wrists.
- People with arthritis should see their dentist routinely to help detect any serious oral health problems before they become severe.
Living with arthritis can make everyday activities more difficult, and oral hygiene is no exception. Tasks like brushing and flossing may require extra effort when you're dealing with joint pain or reduced mobility.
Fortunately, simple adjustments to your routine can make dental care easier and more effective.
Why is oral health important for people with arthritis?
Good oral health is important for everyone, but it may be especially significant for people living with arthritis. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been linked to a higher risk of periodontal (gum) disease.
In a study published in the Journal of Personalized Medicine, it was found that “periodontitis and increased tooth loss were associated with an increased risk of seropositive RA (a common form of autoimmune joint disease) and that maintaining better oral hygiene through frequent tooth brushing and dental scaling was associated with a decreased risk of RA.”
The connection between arthritis and oral health diseases is a two-way street. While gum disease has not been proven to directly cause arthritis, certain oral bacteria may contribute to the autoimmune and inflammatory processes involved in the condition. Therefore, having gum disease may put you at a higher risk of developing arthritis.
Clearly, maintaining a solid oral health care routine, whether you’re living with arthritis or not, is a vital part of keeping good oral and overall health.
How to maintain good oral health care with arthritis?
Living with arthritis doesn’t mean that good oral hygiene needs to take a back seat. Simple swaps and keeping up with regular dental care can help keep your teeth (and body) healthy.
Use tools designed to make oral care easier
One of the biggest challenges people with arthritis face is cleaning their teeth. This is because gripping and maneuvering a toothbrush or dental floss can be painful. Fortunately, there are many oral care products designed to reduce strain on the hands and wrists.
If you have arthritis that makes it painful to clean your teeth, consider using:
- Electric toothbrushes that do most of the brushing motion for you
- Toothbrushes with larger handles for a more comfortable grip
- Floss picks or water flossers instead of traditional string floss
- Adaptive grip attachments that can be added to toothbrushes and flossing tools
- Check out this study where a custom putty toothbrush handle was used to help a patient with arthritis brush more effectively.
These tools can make daily oral hygiene more manageable while helping to clean your teeth properly.
Manage dry mouth symptoms while treating arthritis
Some medications used to treat arthritis may contribute to dry mouth. Reduced saliva production can increase the risk of tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease because saliva helps wash away bacteria and neutralize acids.
To combat dry mouth while managing arthritis:
- Drink water throughout the day
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
- Limit sugary snacks and beverages
- Avoid tobacco products
- Ask your dentist about saliva substitutes or moisturizing oral rinses
Schedule regular dental check-ups
Routine dental exams and cleanings are essential for preventing oral health problems before they become more serious, especially for those diagnosed with arthritis.
At your check-up, be sure to tell your dentist:
- What type of arthritis you have
- Any medications you take
- Whether you experience jaw pain or limited mobility
- If brushing and flossing have become difficult
Your dental team can recommend personalized solutions and identify potential issues early, helping you maintain healthier teeth and gums.
Create an oral care routine that works for you
When it comes to a healthy smile, consistency is often more important than perfection. If arthritis symptoms fluctuate from day to day, it’s a good idea to adapt your oral care routine based on how you feel.
Here are some ideas to make an oral hygiene routine easier:
- Keep oral care supplies within easy reach
- Brush during times of day when pain and stiffness are less severe
- Use adaptive devices, like those mentioned above, that reduce strain
- Setting reminders to maintain a regular routine
Small adjustments throughout the day can make a significant difference in your ability to care for your oral health.
You can have a healthy smile while living with arthritis
Having arthritis doesn't mean you have to compromise your dental health. By using arthritis-friendly oral care tools, staying hydrated, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can continue to protect your teeth and gums while managing symptoms.
Looking for more tips to take care of your oral health? Check out “4 Tips to Maintain Oral Health in Older Adults”.
