Medobs-Ciheam

Women experience unique hormonal changes which makes them more prone to oral health problems.  The hormonal changes do not only have an effect to the supply of blood to the gum tissue, it also impacts the body’s response to toxins which result from buildup of plaque.   The effects of these changes makes women at risk of developing gum disease and other oral health problems at certain stages of their lives. In addition, they are prone to experience receding gums caused by decrease in estrogen causing bone loss resulting from hormonal changes.

Here are the 5 stages in a women’s life wherein hormone fluctuations make them more prone to oral health problems such as gum disease and receding gums.

Puberty

During puberty stage, the surge in production of female hormones estrogen and progesterone increases the flow of blood to the gums and alters the way gum tissues react to irritation in plaque which leads gum tissue to easily bleed during brushing and flossing, become tender, red and swollen.

Menstrual cycle

Women may experience oral changes such as bleeding gums, red, swollen gums, swollen salivary glands and canker sores during hormonal changes that occur during menstrual cycle.  Normally, menstruation gingivitis occurs a day or two prior to the start of the period and clears up soon after the period has started.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, hormone levels of women change significantly.  There is an increase in the level of progesterone which particularly can cause gum disease any time during the second to eighth month of pregnancy; this condition is known as pregnancy gingivitis.  In order to help reduce the chance of developing gingivitis, your dentist may recommend frequent professional dental cleanings.  Inform your dentist if you are pregnant.

Use of oral contraceptives

Women who are taking certain birth control pills which contain progesterone may experience gum inflammation because the body reacts exaggeratedly to toxins produced from plaque.  Inform your dentist in case you are taking birth control pills.

Menopause

As a consequence of advanced age, hormonal changes as well as medications that are used to fight disease can bring about numerous oral changes to occur. Women may experience burning sensations in the mouth, altered taste, sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages and decreased salivary flow which can lead to dry mouth.

Consequently, dry mouth can lead to the development of tooth decay and gum disease as saliva is not available to moisten and cleanse the mouth through neutralizing acids formed by plaque.  Over the-counter medications and other prescription drugs commonly prescribed to older adults can cause dry mouth.

Also, there is a decrease in estrogen production during menopause which leaves women at higher risk for bones loss manifested by receding gums.  Loss of bone in the jaw can lead to tooth loss.

Preventing oral health problems entails proper brushing and flossing of teeth at least twice a day, maintaining routine check-ups and cleanings, eating a balanced diet, avoiding sugary  and starchy foods, keeping the mouth hydrated and having a healthy lifestyle.