How Hormones Impact Oral Health

Throughout their lives, women experience multiple hormonal changes. Hormones don’t just affect a woman’s energy level or emotional well-being, progesterone and estrogen (female hormones) can also affect dental health. Because of these unique hormonal changes, there is an increased risk of oral health complications. Any adjustments of the hormone level affects the blood supply in the gum tissue and the body’s response to toxins. This can cause some women to be more susceptible to plaque and tartar buildup, as well as gum disease.

Here are some factors that cause hormones to fluctuate and how you can keep your oral health in check:

• • Puberty – Hormones during the adolescent years increase the risk of red, swollen, and bleeding gums. In some cases, the gums become thicker as a reaction to plaque. Additionally, the increase in estrogen and progesterone changes how the mouth reacts to bacteria.
  • Menstruation – Most women may not notice changes in their mouth at this time, but swollen and bleeding gums, development of canker sores, and swollen salivary glands may occur. It is critical for women to be more diligent with their daily dental hygiene during and just before menstruation. While these symptoms tend to subside after menstruation, call your dentist if the symptoms persist. Increased swelling and bleeding in the gums might signify a serious, underlying condition. Gum inflammation is reversible with proper dental treatment.

• • Use of Birth Control Pills – Certain birth control pills contain progesterone, which heightens the presence of this hormone in the body. Some women may experience inflamed gums. Talk to your dentist, especially before any tooth removal. Taking birth control pills may increase the risk of dry socket, a painful complication that leaves underlying nerves exposed.

• Pregnancy – Because of the hyper-fluctuation of hormone levels during the pregnancy period, women potentially develop gingivitis, which causes the gums to become red, sore, and tender. This usually occurs between the second and eighth month of pregnancy. However, proper daily care can control and prevent long term damage from gingivitis.
• Menopausal Period – Hormone levels are at their peak again as women enter the menopausal stage. This can also result in a dramatic change in oral health, including sensitivity, altered taste, and burning sensations. Menopausal women are also at risk for dry mouth, a condition characterized by a decreased production of saliva in the mouth. When saliva flow decreases, the risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and tooth loss increases.

Although estrogen therapy reduces the signs of periodontal disease and tooth loss, regular dental checkups can also protect your teeth and gums from the effects of hormonal changes.

If you are looking for high quality and professional denture services in London, Ontario, call Smiles Denture Care Centre at (519) 457-2800 for a free consultation.