Oral care is an important part of overall health—but for people living with complex lymphatic anomalies and lymphatic malformations (LMs) dental visits may require extra awareness and communication.
The lymphatic system plays a role in fluid balance, inflammation, and bone health, including in the face and jaw. Because of this, lymphatic conditions can affect the teeth, gums, jawbone, and healing after dental procedures. Helping your dentist understand your condition supports safer and more effective care.
Why Oral Care Matters for Lymphatic Conditions
In some lymphatic disorders, changes in the mouth or jaw may be:
- Part of known disease involvement
- A sign of disease progression
- An early clue that leads to diagnosis, especially in rare conditions like Gorham-Stout disease
Routine dental visits and imaging can help identify changes early—sometimes before symptoms become severe.
Dental and Oral Issues Some Patients May Experience
Not every patient will have dental complications, but reported concerns include:
- Loose, shifting, or unexplained tooth movement
- Jaw pain, facial asymmetry, or swelling
- Gum swelling or tenderness
- Changes seen on dental X-rays, such as bone thinning or bone loss
- Delayed healing after extractions or oral surgery
The type and severity of issues vary widely depending on the condition and areas involved.
Jaw Bone Changes and Mandibular Osteolysis
In rare cases—particularly in Gorham-Stout disease—the jawbone (mandible) may undergo osteolysis, a process where bone gradually breaks down and is resorbed.
A recently documented case describes mandibular osteolysis identified through dental evaluation, highlighting how dentists can play a critical role in recognizing abnormal bone changes and prompting further medical evaluation.
While this complication is uncommon, awareness is important—especially when dental X-rays show unexpected bone changes.
What to Tell Your Dentist Before Your Appointment
Clear communication helps your dentist make informed decisions. Consider sharing:
- Your diagnosis (CLA, specifically Gorham-Stout disease, or LM involving the face, the mouth or tongue
- Whether you have known bone involvement, especially in the jaw or face
- Any history of facial swelling, or fluid buildup and/or chyle leaks in other areas of your body
- Current or past medications, including targeted therapies such as sirolimus, alpelisib or trametinib
- Contact information for your specialist or healthcare team
Helpful items to bring may include:
- A brief written medical summary
- Relevant imaging reports, if available
Dental Imaging and Procedures: Special Considerations
Dental X-rays are often essential, but findings may look different in patients with lymphatic or bone-involved conditions. Dentists may choose to:
- Monitor changes over time
- Request additional imaging
- Consult with your medical team before invasive procedures
Extra caution may be needed with:
- Tooth extractions
- Dental implants
- Jaw or oral surgery
Dentists as Part of the Care Team
Good oral health is important to your overall health. Dentists and oral health professionals can play an important role in:
- Identifying early changes in the jaw or teeth
- Monitoring progression over time
- Coordinating care with medical specialists
In some cases, collaboration between dentists, oral surgeons, and vascular anomaly specialists helps ensure safe and individualized care.
Learn More
These articles provide deeper insight into dental health and lymphatic conditions:
