Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the body’s tear and salivary glands and sometimes other organs. This can greatly affect your oral health.
Low saliva production (dry mouth) can increase the risk for cavities, tooth loss and infections in the mouth. Saliva plays a major role in maintaining a healthy mouth because it helps to:
Dry mouth can also affect taste and make chewing and swallowing difficult.
If you have Sjӧgren’s syndrome, it’s especially important to see your dentist regularly. If you are enrolled in our Oral Health for Overall Health program, be sure to take advantage of the two additional visits that you’ll receive. To maintain good oral health between appointments, you should:
To help manage the condition and improve oral health, our Oral Health for Overall Health program provides enhanced dental benefits for plan members who are diagnosed with Sjӧgren’s syndrome. These benefits are covered 100% with no out-of-pocket expenses when seeing a participating provider.
Members with health and dental plans from Florida Blue who have a diagnosis of Sjӧgren’s syndrome are enrolled automatically. Dental members who don’t have a health plan with Florida Blue can easily enroll online.
To use your Oral Health for Overall Health benefits, simply make an appointment with your dentist. To find a dentist in your plan’s network, visit our provider directory.