Hormones can affect just about everything including your weight and your mood. Hormonal changes can make all aspects of your health go haywire. But did you know that hormone surges may make you more vulnerable to problems with your teeth and gums?
Women experience oral health issues throughout their life due to hormonal fluctuations. Women are more sensitive to the presence of plaque and bacteria around the gums when their hormone levels are high. It’s important to pay attention to women’s hormones and oral health at various stages of life, especially during puberty, pregnancy and menopause.
Women’s Hormones & Oral Health Timeline:
- Puberty – Increased production of progesterone and estrogen can lead to increased blood flow to your gums and cause swelling & bleeding during brushing and flossing. Removing plaque and bacteria thoroughly every day can reduce the inflammation, discomfort and bleeding.
- Pregnancy – During pregnancy, the increased levels of progesterone can bring on pregnancy gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease that causes gums to be red and tender. You can help keep it under control through good daily habits. If you notice any other changes in your mouth during pregnancy, see your dentist.
- Menopause – Hormonal changes in your body and age specific medications can cause dry mouth, which increases your risk for developing dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Loss of estrogen can lead to bone loss. Loss of bone in your jaw can lead to tooth loss. Talk to your physician and dentist to make sure you are getting the right amount of calcium and vitamin D.
Palm Harbor Premier Dental encourages eating a well balanced diet, brushing & flossing twice a day and visiting your dentist twice a year. Give us a call at (727) 349-3615 if you are experiencing symptoms or it’s time to make your next appointment. The Palm Harbor Premier Dental team is here to assist you!
For further reading on Women’s Hormones & Oral Health visit MouthHealthy.org.