Oral health in women undergoes various changes due to hormonal fluctuations during different stages of life.
Women’s health also undergoes changes in oral health, resulting from variations in hormonal levels during different stages of life.
MENSTRUATION
The most commonly observed oral changes before menstruation are due to elevated levels of the hormone progesterone. These changes may include gum inflammation (gums becoming reddish and bleeding more than usual during brushing). Additionally, canker sores may also appear in the oral cavity during this phase.
ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE USE
In this case, the use of oral contraceptives (e.g., birth control pills) may cause gum inflammation. Moreover, it is described to increase the likelihood of developing dry socket, a complication following tooth extraction that is increased in women using this contraceptive method. Therefore, it is important to inform the dentist about the medication you are taking before any intervention.
PREGNANCY
During pregnancy, it may be difficult to perform effective brushing for some women, as some may experience nausea caused by toothpaste with very intense flavors. The easiest way to overcome this difficulty is to opt for a toothpaste with a neutral flavor.
Episodes of vomiting can lead to erosion (wear) of tooth surfaces. To avoid this adverse action, you can prepare a glass of water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda to rinse, 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
This is another phase with marked hormonal changes that increase the risk of gum inflammation and the onset of Periodontitis.
MENOPAUSE
Therefore, during menopause, many women report sore/sensitive gums, dry mouth sensation, burning sensation, and changes in taste.
OSTEOPOROSIS
Furthermore, in osteoporosis, bones become weak and fracture easily. Hormonal changes after menopause increase the risk of osteoporosis in women. When their bones are weakened by osteoporosis, periodontal disease can develop more rapidly. Thus, with the loss of bone from the jaws, the likelihood of tooth loss increases.
To prevent and address these changes in oral health, it is important to:
Schedule appointments with your Dentist once or twice a year (Check-up); Establish a daily oral hygiene routine (brushing after meals and flossing); Opt for a healthy diet (limiting the consumption of sugary foods or carbonated drinks); Quit smoking (to reduce the risk of periodontal disease and oral cancer, dark tooth pigmentation, and bad breath).
