Effect of the Use of Specific Oral Hygiene Devices on Gingival Health Among Patients With Systemic Sclerosis

Inclusion criteria

• Adult male or female ≥ 18 years (18th birthday completed)
• Affiliation to a social welfare system
• Signed informed consent form
• More than 12 natural teeth suitable for evaluation
• Systemic sclerosis with cutaneous involvement with a diagnosis based on American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and LeRoy and Metzger criteria

Exclusion criteria

• Localized scleroderma or systemic sclerosis without cutaneous involvement ("sine scleroderma" limited form)
• Less than 12 natural teeth suitable for evaluation and/or mandibular/maxillary complete denture(s)
• Other progressive chronic illness /autoimmune disease other than systemic sclerosis (e.g. diabetes)
• Another cause of mucocutaneous sclerosis (e.g. radiotherapy involving the oro-facial region)
• Current use of sonic toothbrush and/or dental water flosser
• Severe manual handicap preventing the patient from holding a toothbrush with a large handle
• Oral antiseptics (e.g. chlorhexidin mouthwashes)
• Ongoing medical treatment inducing a significant modification of the gingival state (e.g. anti-epileptic drugs)
• Smoking (≥ 10 cigarettes per day)
• Impossibility to provide accurate information (e.g. emergency situation, comprehension difficulties)
• Individual under guardianship, curatorship or judicial protection