Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the body’s tear and salivary glands. Saliva plays an important role in maintaining a healthy mouth because it helps to:
Low saliva production (dry mouth) can lead to many problems. If it persists for months or years, you can develop difficulty chewing and swallowing, severe and progressive tooth decay (and tooth loss), and oral infections (particularly fungal). Dry mouth can also affect your sense of taste.
A recent study found that people diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome had significantly more cavities than those who did not have the condition.
If you have Sjӧgren’s syndrome, it’s recommended that you see your dentist twice a year. To maintain good oral health between visits, you should:
If you’ve been diagnosed with Sjӧgren’s syndrome or other serious conditions, our Oral Health for Total HealthSM program’s preventive dental services can help improve your oral and overall health.
These valuable services are available to enrolled members at no extra cost when visiting a participating dentist.
Program benefits include:
You’re automatically enrolled if you live with Sjӧgren’s syndrome and have health and dental plans from HMSA. If you don’t have a health plan with HMSA, you can easily enroll online.
Once enrolled, all you need to do is make an appointment with a participating dentist. You can find a dentist in your plan’s network at hmsadental.com/find-a-dentist.
Check our provider directory to see if your dentist is in-network, or find a participating provider.
Have a qualifying medical condition? Enroll to receive enhanced dental benefits that promote your overall health.