It was in 1933 when a Swedish ophthalmologist named Henrik Sjögren, who lived and worked in Copenhagen, first described a condition affecting a group of women in which chronic arthritis was accompanied by dry mouth and dry eyes.
Decades later, the condition became officially known as Sjogren’s Syndrome, an inflammatory disease that affects the exocrine glands (salivary and lacrimal) due to immune system dysfunction.
The syndrome occurs most frequently in women aged 30 to 50, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:20.
Causes of Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjogren’s Syndrome is classified as an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system – which normally protects the body by attacking harmful viruses and bacteria – malfunctions and attacks specific targets within the body. In this case, the immune system primarily affects the exocrine glands, especially the salivary and lacrimal glands, which then stop producing fluids.
Symptoms and Consequences
Oral manifestations of Sjogren’s Syndrome include dry mouth (or difficulty eating dry foods), swelling of the glands around the face and neck, difficulty swallowing, and acid reflux symptoms.
The feeling of dry mouth tends to become more noticeable at night or while eating meals. The tongue often becomes red and irritated, accompanied by a burning sensation. Reduced saliva flow creates an environment where fungi and bacteria can thrive, increasing the risk of cavities, gingivitis, and oral infections caused by yeast, such as candida or thrush.
TREATMENT AND THERAPY
Treatment should be personalized based on the individual patient and is aimed at keeping symptoms under control. In cases of dry mouth, it is recommended to:
- Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candies to help stimulate saliva production;
- Sip water frequently to keep the mouth hydrated;
- Apply lip balm to soothe dry or cracked lips;
- Use a saliva substitute, such as Cariex®;
- Consult your doctor about medications that can increase saliva flow.
Cariex® Dental Spray can serve as an excellent saliva substitute, suitable for use at any time of day – and especially before bedtime. Formulated with bicarbonate, it helps maintain proper salivary pH, provides effective lubrication of the oral mucosa, and offers immediate relief for those experiencing dry mouth. By restoring balance in the oral environment, it also helps address issues such as fungal infections (candidiasis) and bad breath, which are often linked to reduced saliva flow.
Additionally, by controlling acidity, Cariex® reduces the risk of cavities and dental erosion, both of which are commonly observed in individuals affected by this syndrome.