Lyme Disease and the Teeth Connection| Healthy Burning

What you should be aware of

To know about the lyme disease and the teeth connection first know about lyme disease. Untreated early infection can lead to neurologic, articular, and cardiac signs of Lyme disease, a multisystem inflammatory disease. Although the B. burgdorferi bacteria do not produce toxins or directly harm tissue, host response mechanisms lead to local inflammation.

Since it is a commensal organism, it can coexist peacefully with its host without producing any symptoms. However, the host is vulnerable to an active Lyme infection if their Autonomic immune system or host immunity is weakened.

Three phases of general clinical manifestations

• Early localized: discrete, bull’s eye-shaped or target skin lesions that may burn, itch, or ache in warm body parts like the crotch, axilla, or belt line.
• Early dissemination: Brain or heart involvement may happen if treatment is not started.
• The late stage of the disease, also known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS), involves the muscles and bones. They have a corkscrew shape. If left long enough, they establish colonies, and you may observe them destroy immune cells like neutrophils and leukocytes.

The relationship between Lyme Disease and the Teeth health

The majority of spirochetes are anaerobic and free-living. They resemble corkscrews. They thrive in conditions that encourage this state.

This bacterium may be more prevalent when the body is in an acidic state called acidosis, which lowers the amount of oxygen available to the cells. Every time the pH drops in the mouth below 6.5, spirochetes are typically visible in the gingiva. We advise our clients to maintain an alkaline mouth and work on their pH. We offer alkaline living advice. 

Spirochetes thrive in dentinal tubules of teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, where the blood supply is severed. Researchers observe spirochetes commonly in chronic periodontitis, which can induce symptoms of systemic inflammation.

One can detect spirochetes on a histological slide of a tooth post-root canal therapy or in a basic plaque sample using a phase contrast microscope. DNA Connections Lab can analyze teeth that have undergone root canal therapy to identify potential diseases, with spirochetes often being among them.

It’s been observed that spirochetes proliferating in root canals post-tooth extraction serve as the primary reservoir for Lyme infection and numerous other chronic illnesses. Lyme bacteria are harbored within teeth, particularly in the dentin, rather than the enamel. The spirochete bacterium thrives within the dentin’s numerous tiny tubules, spanning up to three miles in length.

Manifestations

Clinical signs can include headaches, temporomandibular joint discomfort (jaw pain), masticatory (chewing) muscle pain, facial nerve palsy, and face and dental pain (toothache). It’s also essential to consider the potential consequences of performing dental work on a patient with Lyme disease1.

Symptoms of oral presentations

Headache and facial pain that frequently resemble dental pathology and temporomandibular (such as TMJ) abnormalities are symptoms linked to Lyme disease.

Other oral symptoms can be:

• Dry mouth
• Tooth Sensitivity
• The oral inflammation of the dental pulp is called pulpitis.
• Known as partial facial paralysis, or Bell’s palsy
• Cranial nerve palsy may arise in early disseminated illness. Bell’s palsy is a type of facial neuropathy that typically resolves on its own. It is caused by inflammation or damage to the seventh cranial nerve, sometimes the facial nerve.
• A brief gland inflammation may be the first sign of involvement of the salivary glands.
• Even with the best of cleanliness, I have bad breath.
• Acidic oral pH. 

Addressing the dental health needs of individuals with chronic Lyme disease necessitates a multidisciplinary approach involving dentists, physicians, and other healthcare providers. Moreover, comprehensive treatment plans must consider the unique challenges posed by the disease. Additionally, interventions should be tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient.

Regular Dental Examinations:

Routine dental check-ups are essential for monitoring oral health status and identifying any issues early on. Dentists can provide guidance on effective oral hygiene practices and recommend preventive measures to minimize the risk of dental complications.

Collaborative Care:

Collaboration between dental professionals and healthcare providers specializing in Lyme disease management is crucial for holistic patient care. Coordinating treatment plans ensures that dental interventions are compatible with the overall management of chronic Lyme disease.

Symptom Management:

Addressing symptoms such as joint pain and neurological issues can improve the patient’s ability to tolerate dental procedures and adhere to oral hygiene regimens. Pain management strategies and accommodations for cognitive impairments may be necessary to facilitate dental care.

Patient Education:

Empowering patients with knowledge about the relationship between chronic Lyme disease and dental health equips them to take an active role in maintaining their oral well-being. Educational resources and support groups can provide valuable information and encouragement for individuals navigating the challenges of both conditions.

Adaptive Dentistry:

Dentists may need to adapt treatment approaches to accommodate the unique needs of patients with chronic Lyme disease. This may include modifying treatment schedules, utilizing alternative techniques for anesthesia and pain management, and providing additional support during dental procedures.