Autoimmune Disease and Dentistry

You would have to be living in a cave not to notice the increase in autoimmune diseases recently. There are currently over 100 autoimmune diseases and experts think those are only the tip of the iceberg. Some of these diseases directly impact the oral cavity in a significant, sometimes devastating, way.  In addition, medications used to treat these conditions have important side effects and interactions the dental team needs to understand in order to provide safe and effective care for these patients. Dr. Huffines will begin with an easy-to-understand update on how our amazing immune system works. Then we will explore what causes the body’s immune system to attack itself – autoimmune disease. Some of the most important autoimmune diseases that impact the oral cavity or the delivery of dental care will be described. You may be shocked to find out what common diseases have an autoimmune component. Are the Autoimmune Diets a gimmick or are some scientifically valid? The dental implications of Post-COVID Syndrome, a largely autoimmune condition affecting over 16 million in the United States, will be covered in detail. Finally, attendees will be given specific recommendations on how to answer a medical consult requesting dental clearance before patients begin certain chemotherapeutic interventions. Join Dr. Huffines for a comprehensive overview of this important and rapidly developing dental field.