Analysis of the oral manifestations of systemic sclerosis (scleroderma)

Thirty-one female patients with systemic sclerosis and 30 age- and sex-matched control subjects underwent a clinical and radiographic oral examination. The intercommissural distance, the interincisal distance, and the maximum oral aperture were all reduced in patients with systemic sclerosis. Xerostomia was present in 70% of the patients and was associated with an increased frequency of dental caries. Diseased, missing, and filled surfaces, mobile teeth, and periodontal disease were more prevalent in patients with systemic sclerosis than control subjects. Periodontal membrane width was increased in patients with systemic sclerosis and involved all groups of teeth. Mandibular erosions were seen in 9 of 31 patients and involved the mandibular angle, the condylar head, the coronoid process, and the digastric region. These lesions were associated with the presence of periodontal membrane thickening and were seen in patients with more severe systemic sclerosis.