July 3, 2025 by Dr. Adriana Da Silveira

Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect My Bite? 5 Things You Should Know

Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect My Bite? Discover how RA can lead to jaw pain, shifting teeth, and bite misalignment. Learn expert tips from Dr. D at Bee Cave Orthodontics to protect your smile and feel better – Bee Cave Orthodontics – Austin, Texas

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If you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you’re probably used to joint pain in your hands, knees, or feet.

But what if your jaw starts hurting, or your bite feels off when you’re eating?

That’s not in your head, RA can absolutely impact your oral health, especially the way your teeth fit together. Here at Bee Cave Orthodontics, we’ve helped many patients with chronic conditions like RA take back control of their comfort, health, and confidence.

Led by Dr. D, a trusted local orthodontist, national Invisalign® speaker, and a go-to expert for doctors throughout Austin, our team specializes in gentle, tech-forward care for complex cases, always with a smile.

Let’s answer the big question:

How Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Your Bite?

Below are 5 real ways RA can show up in your mouth and what you can do about it.

1. It Can Cause Jaw Joint Inflammation (TMJ)

RA can inflame the small joints that connect your jaw to your skull, called the temporomandibular joints, or TMJs.

This may lead to:

Jaw stiffness or pain when chewing
Clicking or locking in your jaw
Difficulty opening your mouth all the way

When your jaw doesn’t move the way it should, your bite can shift, and chewing may become uncomfortable or uneven. Dr. D uses state-of-the-art 3D imaging to check for joint inflammation early before it causes long-term damage.

2. It Might Shift Your Teeth Over Time

RA doesn’t just cause inflammation, it can also lead to bone erosion in the jaw. This may cause:

Teeth that suddenly feel “off” or don’t touch like they used to
New gaps or overlapping
Changes in your smile’s appearance

Dr. D is an expert in Invisalign® and customizes every plan with your health and comfort in mind. Gentle aligners are often a great solution for patients who want bite correction without added joint stress.

3. Medications Can Dry Out Your Mouth—and That Matters

A lot of RA medications can cause dry mouth (xerostomia). Without enough saliva, your risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth shifting goes way up. And yes, gum issues can change your bite.

If your mouth feels dry often, ask us! We’ll help you find safe, effective products to restore moisture and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

4. Stress and Pain Can Trigger Clenching or Grinding

RA pain can sometimes lead to bruxism, grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night. This can lead to:

Flattened or cracked teeth
Morning jaw tension
Bite misalignment over time

We custom-make nightguards using digital scans—no goopy impressions, to protect your teeth and joints, all while ensuring the fit is precise and comfortable.

5. It Can Be Harder to Brush and Floss

RA can make daily routines, like brushing and flossing, feel frustrating or painful. And when cleaning becomes harder, plaque builds up, leading to:

Gum recession
Loose teeth
Bite instability

We recommend easy-to-use tools, like electric brushes with larger handles, or water flossers that are gentle and joint-friendly. Every solution we suggest is real-life tested—because we know you’ve got enough on your plate.

Why Trust Dr. D?

Dr. D isn’t just a board-certified orthodontist, she’s also a national speaker for Invisalign®, trusted by local pediatricians and general dentists across Austin. Families love her gentle care, smart use of technology, and real commitment to making treatment accessible, respectful, and empowering.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Real, local experience with patients living with chronic conditions
A kind and judgment-free space
Tech that makes your life easier, not harder
Care plans designed to adapt to your needs, not the other way around

What Should I Do If I Have RA and My Bite Feels Off?

Start by talking to a provider who knows what to look for. Whether it’s pain, bite changes, or just a feeling that something isn’t right, don’t wait.

At Bee Cave Orthodontics, we’ll sit down with you, listen to your concerns, and create a plan that’s made for you and your lifestyle. No pressure, no pain, just thoughtful, trusted care.

🦷 Ready to feel better?

👉Schedule a Free Consultation with Dr. D now !

Want to get to know us a little better? Check out our YouTube Videos!

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