Authors: Smaranda Buduru, Alexandra-Cristina Șișca, Manuela Manziuc, Antarinia Craciun, Cecilia Bacali
Affiliation
Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, ”Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj Napoca, Romania
Abstract
Background. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) significantly impacts daily activities and overall healthcare quality, including oral health and denture management. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder that not only affects joints but also has consequences on various aspects of daily life and healthcare. Among the less commonly recognized issues is the impact of RA on oral health, particularly in the context of denture use and maintenance. Patients with RA frequently face significant difficulties in managing their dentures due to physical impairments, such as reduced manual dexterity and persistent pain, which complicates routine oral hygiene practices.
Aims. This review aims to comprehensively explore the specific challenges that RA patients encounter in using and maintaining dentures. It aims to identify key issues related to manual dexterity, pain management, and the overall maintenance of dentures, which may adversely affect the oral health and quality of life of RA patients.
Methods. A rigorous systematic search of the PubMed and Embase databases was performed using predefined keywords such as “rheumatoid arthritis,” “denture” and “health care quality “. The search was restricted to free full-text articles, written in English, and involving human subjects. A total of 54 articles were initially identified, and after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 articles were selected for in-depth review.
Results. The included studies highlighted the primary challenges RA patients face, including difficulty with denture insertion, removal, cleaning, and maintenance due to joint pain and decreased hand function. Additionally, complications such as oral candidiasis and poor masticatory function were commonly reported.
Conclusions. The review emphasizes the need for denture care interventions and specialized healthcare strategies to reduce these challenges. Regular follow-ups, individualized care plans, and improved education on denture maintenance could significantly enhance the oral health outcomes and overall quality of life for RA patients.
Keywords: rheumatoid arthritis, denture care, oral health, manual dexterity, denture maintenance.
Difficulties in denture care for patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review
