Women, Hormones and Dental Health

Women tend to be very busy, especially moms. It's usually the mother who calls to schedule family dental appointments and make sure everyone is cared for, often putting her own self care last.

For this month when we celebrate mothers, we want to remind women that they have higher risks of dental problems and need to be sure to take care of their own oral health. This means brushing, flossing and staying up to date with dental appointments.

The reason women are more likely to develop dental issues is due to the hormone fluctuations throughout their lives. Women understand that hormones are powerful, but don't often relate them to their oral health.

When hormones fluctuate they cause inflammation in your gums. This inflammation is a precursor to gingivitis or periodontitis, otherwise known as gum disease. Symptoms include red and irritated gums, bleeding gums, sensitivity and infections, but there aren't always signs it is there. Be sure to share with your dentist and hygienist any changes in your health, including those that are hormone related.

Common ways your hormones impact your dental health include:

‍Menstrual Cycles: Your hormone levels vary through the different stages of your cycles. If they are too high, low or out of balance you may experience inflammation or symptoms related to gum disease.

Hormonal Birth Control: These methods, including "the pill" can make you more susceptible to dry sockets after extractions.

Pregnancy: In addition to being at high risk for gum disease, you can also experience tooth enamel erosion if you have morning sickness and throw up. Many pregnant women find it hard to care for their teeth because the smell of toothpaste makes the nausea worse. There are scent/taste free versions you can buy that will help. It is especially important to practice good oral health care and keep dental appointments when you are expecting because dental health issues have been linked to pre-term and low weight babies. Good dental care during pregnancy protects the health of both you and your little one.

Menopause: During this transition when hormones diminish many woman start to experience dryness, pain and burning in their mouths. They are also at a higher risk for developing osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones and can lead to fractures and breaks, including in the jaw, as well as periodontal disease and tooth loss. It is also important to note that some osteoporosis medications can cause problems in the jaw and bone that supports your teeth.

Please be sure to let your dental office know if you are experiencing any hormone related or other changes in your health.

Our goal is to support you with healthy, beautiful teeth through all the stages of your life and we promise to take great care of you.

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KN Dentistry - Orange, CA - (714) 633-2562