A study published in the January 2009 issue of the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases examined ankylosing spondylitis patient's risk of periodontal (gum) disease.

Perio.org describes periodontitis as follows: "Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed."

The study concludes that "AS patients have a significantly higher risk of PD [periodontal disease], strongly suggesting the need of a close collaboration between rheumatologists, periodontists and dental hygienists when treating AS patients."

To read the study abstract, click here.

To read more about periodontal disease, click here for the Wikipedia entry or click here for an article at Perio.org.

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