Sjogren Syndrome — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

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EasyConnective Tissue DiseaseSjogren SyndromeSCE Rheumatology

A 55-year-old woman with Sjögren disease reports persistent xerostomia and recurrent bilateral parotid swelling. She has no current dental pain. Which preventive oral-health plan is most appropriate?

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Correct answer: B — Six-monthly dental review, fluoride toothpaste and sugar-free chewing gum

The correct answer is B. Sjögren-related salivary hypofunction reduces the lubricating, buffering and antimicrobial protection provided by saliva, increasing the risk of dental caries and periodontal disease. UK advice therefore recommends preventive dental review every 6 months, regular use of fluoride toothpaste and sugar-free chewing gum to stimulate residual salivary flow. Review should not be deferred until pain or visible caries develops, because substantial disease may already be present. Chlorhexidine is not recommended as the sole preventive measure and does not replace fluoride-based care. Saliva substitutes may improve symptoms but do not reproduce all the protective functions of natural saliva and must not replace scheduled dental surveillance. Prophylactic extraction and orthodontic treatment have no role in routine prevention.

Reference: NHS, “Sjögren's syndrome”, section: Things you can do to help ease the symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome, last reviewed 27 November 2024. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sjogrens-syndrome/