Sjögren’s Syndrome: Protecting Your Smile

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition that affects the moisture-producing glands — especially the salivary glands. One of the biggest ways this shows up in the mouth is dry mouth. Saliva normally protects your teeth, neutralizes acids, delivers minerals back to the enamel, and helps keep the tissues healthy and comfortable. When saliva is reduced, decay can develop much more quickly than expected — especially along the gumline and root surfaces.

Many of my patients with Sjögren’s tell me they keep water nearby at all times, food can feel dry or hard to swallow, and the mouth may feel sticky or burning. Others are surprised — and discouraged — when they suddenly start getting cavities after years of having very few.

With Sjögren’s, the key is a very intentional prevention plan — focused not only on comfort, but on strengthening enamel and protecting the roots. Depending on your preferences and medical history, that may include fluoride-based protection, nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) products that help rebuild and smooth weakened enamel, and xylitol, which can support a healthier oral environment and help reduce acid-producing bacteria. These tools work together to make teeth more resilient in an environment with less natural saliva.

From there, we layer in dry-mouth-friendly routines — frequent sips of water, alcohol-free rinses, moisturizing gels or sprays, and sometimes more frequent cleanings so we can stay ahead of changes. The goal is never to overwhelm you — it’s to give your teeth the best defense possible while keeping your mouth as comfortable as we can.

Sjögren’s can feel frustrating at times, especially when you start seeing the effects in your dental health. But you’re not alone — and with the right plan, there is a lot we can do together to protect your smile and support your overall wellness. If you’re living with persistent dry mouth, diagnosed or not, I’m here to help you sort through your options and build a plan that truly supports you.