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Scleroderma: oral manifestations and treatment challenges
1Department of Dentistry, UNC Hospitals, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7450, USA.
Scleroderma, a connective tissue disease causing excess collagen, leads to skin and organ fibrosis. Oral health complications like microstomia and xerostomia are common, impacting dental care.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Oral Medicine
- Connective Tissue Diseases
Background:
- Scleroderma is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by excessive collagen deposition.
- It leads to fibrosis in the skin and internal organs, significantly impacting patient health.
- Oral manifestations are frequent and can severely affect quality of life.
Observation:
- Oral sequelae in scleroderma include microstomia, xerostomia, and mucosal/gingival fibrosis.
- Mandibular bone resorption is another significant oral complication observed in patients.
- These conditions present challenges for maintaining oral hygiene and performing dental procedures.
Findings:
- Review of literature and presentation of two clinical cases highlight the spectrum of oral involvement in scleroderma.
- The cases illustrate the complex interplay between systemic fibrosis and oral health.
- Fibrotic changes and bone resorption pose unique difficulties for dental management.
Implications:
- Understanding these oral sequelae is crucial for comprehensive scleroderma patient care.
- Early recognition and tailored dental interventions can mitigate complications.
- Further research is needed to optimize dental treatment strategies for scleroderma patients.
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