Final answer:
Sjögren's syndrome causes the immune system to attack salivary glands, leading to reduced salivary secretion and an increased risk for periodontal disease. Medications may increase salivary flow, potentially reducing the caries risk, but proper oral hygiene remains essential. The effect of medication on salivary flow and caries risk is not guaranteed and varies between individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient is informed that they have an autoimmune disease like Sjögren's syndrome that attacks the salivary glands, it means that their immune system is mistakenly producing antibodies against the proteins present in these glands. These misguided actions cause the salivary glands to break down and become non-functional. As a result, there is a reduction in salivary secretion which is essential for washing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
Consequently individuals with Sjögren's syndrome are often at an increased risk for periodontal disease. Regarding the question about whether the caries risk decreases due to medications increasing salivary flow, it's important to note that while medications may help improve salivary flow and thus potentially reduce the risk of caries, they do not entirely negate the increased risk caused by the underlying condition. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental care are still crucial for patients with Sjögren's syndrome to minimize the risk of both periodontal disease and dental caries. Moreover, the question of whether the medicines specifically used for treating Sjögren's syndrome lead to an increase in salivary flow so dramatic that it lowers caries risk is complex and dependent on individual patient responses and the type of medication used. Some medications may have this effect but it's not a universal outcome. The relationship between autoimmune disorders, their treatment and oral health is multifaceted and requires a personalized approach to management.