Can RA cause nerve pain or inflammation in the mouth during root canals?
While RA itself doesn't typically cause nerve pain in the mouth, RA medications can lead to various mouth-related issues that might contribute to discomfort. The electrical shock-like pain you're describing when eating or drinking, especially with Show Full Answer
Can RA cause nerve pain or inflammation in the mouth during root canals?
While RA itself doesn't typically cause nerve pain in the mouth, RA medications can lead to various mouth-related issues that might contribute to discomfort. The electrical shock-like pain you're describing when eating or drinking, especially with cold items, sounds quite distressing and definitely warrants the oral surgeon visit you have planned.
Some RA medications can cause mouth problems including:
- Mouth sores and ulcers (especially methotrexate)
- Dry mouth (from NSAIDs, leflunomide, etanercept, and adalimumab)
- Inflammation and soreness throughout the mouth
- Increased susceptibility to infections due to immunosuppression
Dry mouth is particularly important because when saliva is reduced, it can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum disease, and other dental issues that might cause the type of pain you're experiencing.
It's good that you're seeing an oral surgeon. Make sure to bring a complete list of your RA medications, as immunosuppressive drugs can affect healing and infection risk with dental procedures. Your oral surgeon and rheumatologist should coordinate on your care, especially if any dental work is needed.
The sharp, electrical pain with temperature sensitivity could be related to nerve issues in a tooth, but your medical team will need to rule out medication side effects or other dental causes.
April 10
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