Gum Sensitivity on Prednisone

[Groda]

I am on 40 mg of prednisone for GCA. Does Prednisone cause gum sensitivty and brittle nails?

My gums now bleed easily. They never did before CGA. Always had strong nails. Not anymore?

Any comments much appreciated\

Groda

[SnazzyD]

It can do and I got both. It reduces with dose so in the meantime use a soft brush and keep good oral hygiene because the whole point of Pred is to immunosuppress you so you are more prone in infections anywhere. It also thins the skin so keep an eye out for nicks, cuts and bruises. It can feel like you are falling apart but it’s not forever.

There is such a thing as steroid induced dentine sensitivity too, which you can find online. I found sodium Laureth containing toothpastes made it worse. Again, it’s worse with high doses.

[Groda in reply to SnazzyD]

Thanks, at least now I know it is Prednisone caused. I will check the toothpaste for sodium laureth and get some without that ingredient.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Depends on the person - since I have been on pred my nails have been far better than ever before and I do know a few others who experienced the same. PMR caused tooth sensitivity for me - being on pred improved it.

[SheffieldJane]

I have both issues. My dentist gives me regular deep cleans and advises flossing/ dental brushes. Age can also lead to these issues and there is not much to do for wobbly teeth. I use sensodene toothpaste and dry mouthwash and pastilles especially at night - I also experience a dry mouth when I lie down. My dentist is pleased with me and says that we are doing all we can before a bridge at the left side of my mouth is considered. Pay particular attention to the back of your mouth and both surfaces of the teeth.

My finger nails were very weak until I started painting them with nail strengthener. I cut them at the first sign of splitting and they look quite nice these days. Don’t be tempted to nibble at them and use hand cream.

[northwesterner]

Yes I noticed my nails being brittle because prednisone can decrease calcium absorption so I take 1000 mg calcium and 400 IU vitamin D.

[orangemax]

Hi, Groda. I am in the US and I see you are in Canada. I am on prednisone now for 2 years. I have had more problems with my teeth and gums in the last 6 months than I have had in my entire life. And unfortunately, when I ask the dentists (general and endodontist, and soon, periodontist) they are pitifully clueless. I'm hoping the periodontist will be more knowledgeable, as I guess that's his field of expertise. I have been using a perscription toothpaste called Prevident (made by Colgate) that has been a tremendous help for sensitivity of my teeth, but your problem is gums, and I don't know if it will help that. Something you might ask your dentist. They might call it something else in Canada, BTW. Bleeding gums is something else, and I strongly urge you to pursue that. Good luck.

[Surrie]

I did have some gum sensitivity and bleeding but it was minor, so I'm sorry I can't help you in that area. My nails have always been quite brittle and were even worse on Prednisone so I started taking Collagen daily and it has made a huge difference for me. I hope this helps.