Final answer:
Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease that attacks the salivary glands, leads to decreased saliva production and dry mouth, making individuals more prone to dental caries and jaw necrosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
People with Sjogren's syndrome are at an increased risk of dental caries and jaw necrosis due to the dysfunction of their salivary glands. Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the salivary glands, leading to decreased saliva production and dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in maintaining oral health by washing away food particles, buffering acids, and providing minerals to protect teeth. Without sufficient saliva, the mouth becomes more susceptible to dental caries, tartar buildup, and gum disease. Additionally, the lack of saliva can also impair the healing process and increase the risk of jaw necrosis.