Sjögren’s (pronounced SHOW-grins) 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 recommended that you see your dentist twice a year. To maintain good oral health between visits, you should:
To help manage the condition and improve oral health, HMSA’s Oral Health for Total 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 HMSA who have a diagnosis of Sjӧgren’s syndrome are enrolled automatically. Dental members who don’t have a health plan with HMSA can easily enroll online.
To use your Oral Health for Total Health benefits, simply make an appointment with your dentist. To find a dentist in your plan’s network, visit our provider directory.
Check our provider directory to see if your dentist is in-network, or find a participating provider.
Have a qualifying medical condition? Enroll to receive enhanced dental benefits that promote your overall health.