tooth decay part of fibro?

[Eff fibro]

I can't find any real info, does anyone know if there's a link between dental decay and FM? I'm finding plenty on dental PAIN and fibro, but not about decay. For the past few years my teeth have been "dissolving" basically. The enamel is mostly gone, I get cavity upon cavity upon cavity, this year alone I've had 3 crowns, a root canal, an extraction, a few fillings, and maxed out my insurance before I could finish the last extraction and other crown. And 2 more fillings.
I brush my teeth twice a day, use a prescription fluoride treatment, and they are still falling apart. Does anyone else have issues with dental decay?

 

[1sweed]

It may be the fluoride treatment or a medication your taking. I have heard that whiting strips or the process of teeth whiting can cause this as well. Some alternative methods like using vinegar can be hard on tooth enamel due to the acid content. Could be some food your eating like to many sweets. As for it being related to fibro, I would not consider it. Remember not every condition is a part of fibro, you can develop other health conditions that have nothing to do with fibro.

 

[Eff fibro]

Thanks so much for your reply! I was diagnosed almost 2 months ago so I'm still trying to figure out what's fibro related and what's not. I've had SOOO many symptoms over the years (like chronic nausea and vomiting x13 years). I've seen countless specialists trying to figure out my array of symptoms, but most aren't explained, hence questioning a link to fibro.
As for my teeth, I don't use any whitening products (only did for a few days several years ago, they hurt me). I use toothpaste that's supposed to rebuild enamel, the fluoride is supposed to help... I think part of it is erosion related to years of vomiting regularly, I eat sweets regularly but not large amounts, and part of it is either because of my seizure meds or just my body being unique.
Thanks for the input and that's good to have in the back of my mind, not everything is related to fibro. It just causes SOOO many different symptoms!

 

[1sweed]

Your very welcome and I hope you can get the condition under control. With fibro's 5000 symptoms it is often confusing as to what is a part of it and what is not. Just get things checked out when they happen if they drag on a bit and then when no reason can be found it MAY be related to fibro. Some of the many symptoms could be another condition that just has not grow or developed enough to be found by doctors tests. I know it is nerve racking and hard to deal with at times but keep your courage up and hope for a short flare or an answer that explains a certain symptom. Try not to worry as it only makes things appear much worse than they really are. Glad you found us and I hope you will come back often.

 

[terbaer]

Eff Fibro, are you possibly clenching your jaw? I have broken several teeth in the back so needed crowns and I have had several that the enamel has broken off at the top by the gum line. Again, from clenching. I used to grind my teeth, but with my stressful job, I was finding that my jaw was hurting really bad and then noticed that I would have a piece of tooth from flaking off on my tongue. When went to the dentist, she confirmed that it was all related to the clenching. I know I clench when I'm really uncomfortable with pain, or stressed out. Ask your dentist if they have any suggestions. You mentioned vomitting. That could have weakened your enamel. I've heard that the acid from the stomach can be very damaging to teeth so be aware of that. I don't know if this is helpful or not, but just food for thought. Good luck!.....

 

[jadallyn]

I was also wondering this! I was only just diagnosed last month but have had an increase in difficulties for the past 3 years or so. I wondered about the teeth because I never, ever had a cavity or dental issue until I was 26. I'm 28 now and have had 3 fillings since, which makes me mad because I'm so conscious about dental health! I DO clench my jaw; definitely during sleep but during the day and not even realizing it. My jaw muscles are constantly in pain, causing migraines. I just assume this is all FM!

 

[Forgetmenot]

I'm very proud to say I'm 42 and have no fillings.

 

[terbaer]

If you are on any of the triptoline meds, like amitriptoline or nortriptoline, they cause dry mouth, which can definitely lead to teeth problems. I say this with knowledge. My dentist flipped when I told her I had dry mouth from the meds that I take. She said that it can cause huge problems with gums receding and cavities. Saliva is very important in teeth and gum health.

 

[Forgetmenot]

Oh wow I'm on amiptripoline but like I say I don't have filling but il defro keep an eye on dry mouth. I do get it but only when my meds upped ,and I alway drink like a fish why it's dry.

 

[terbaer]

Be aware at night time, which is when mine is the worse. Probably because I can't drink water while I'm asleep...LOL. There are products out there that can help with the night time dry mouth.

I hope this helps both Forgetmenot and Eff Fibro (since she asked the question originally). Take care both of you!

 

[Sabrina52]

My dentist told me that I have acidic spit, so its easier for me to get cavities and stuff like that, I have also heard that an acidic body can cause a bunch of problems and also make your chronic pain worst, so maybe try eating less acidic foods, maybe it might help?

 

[sleepygrumpydopey]

I have had complete dentures by early 30's. Just letting people know I was also diagnosed with Sjrogren's.... doc said that is THE reason for the tooth and jaw erosions. It's autoimmune. Please have your docs look into it.

 

[terbaer]

I've heard of Sjrogren's but don't know anything about it. I'm sorry you lost all of your teeth. Isn't it great what is out there these days? Like my cracked teeth. I have crown's on 4 molars because of clenching.

 

[Ruralchick]

I was fitted with a "Night Guard" as I wore my teeth down, cracked one and broke a bridge. The first guard was soft and I split it in no time. The one I have now is a ridged one. I clench and grind my teeth from migraines and pain. It is clear but fits onto my top teeth. I had to replace the bridges but now with the guard I expect them to last a long time. But it won't work if I don't use it! Takes a little getting used to.

 

[terbaer]

I have a night guard. I have tried and tried to get used to it. I'm claustrophobic so it makes getting to sleep worse than I already do. It also gives me a headache, which I have almost daily now. I know, it'll save my teeth. Sometimes it's difficult to decide which way to turn!