Changing Body, Changing Oral Health
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Women's health issues can be directly related to dental problems because of body changes over the years. See My Tacoma Dentist in Tacoma, Washington, about periodontics services for women.
Periodontics Services
Throughout her life, a woman's body will go through many different changes. What many women don't realize is that their dental health plays a large part in overall lifetime health.
Though studies have shown that women tend to have better home care habits than men, hormonal fluctuations tend to even out the playing field. Because periodontal disease, an infection of the gum tissue and bone, is often a silent disease, many women are not aware of it until it reaches an advanced stage. My Tacoma Dentist is here to help you safeguard your oral health. |
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Teen Years
As a young woman's body matures, it begins to produce more progesterone and estrogen, which can increase the gum's reactions to irritants, such as plaque and food particles. As she matures, the tendency for gums to swell in response to irritants will lessen. The best way to ensure long term dental health is to follow a good home care regimen, including daily brushing and flossing, and to see your dentist and hygienist on regular basis.
Monthly Cycles
During the menstrual cycle, many women notice no change at all in their mouths. Others may experience bleeding gums, red and swollen gums, and sores on the inside of their cheek. This is called menstruation gingivitis, and generally occurs about the same time as premenstrual syndrome. Once the cycle begins, the symptoms clear up.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, women experience an increase in estrogen and progesterone. Pregnancy gingivitis may begin in the second month and increase in severity through the eighth month. Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis include swelling, bleeding, and redness of the gums. It occurs because the elevated hormone levels exaggerate the body's response to plaque and other irritants. Despite the most vigorous home care practices, gingivitis may still appear.
Some pregnant women's gums can react so strongly to irritants that they form large lumps called pregnancy tumors, which are benign and usually painless. If the tumor persists after delivery, it may require removal.
What You Can Do
See your dentist at least twice a year for exams and cleaning. Maintain excellent home care by brushing and flossing daily. |
Unborn Babies
Periodontal disease can also affect the health of an unborn baby. Recently, research has linked periodontal disease to premature birth and low birth weight. In fact, a pregnant woman who has periodontal disease is 7 times more likely to have a baby born too early and too small. Periodontal disease triggers increased levels of biological fluids that induce labor. All pregnant women should receive a periodontal exam as part of their prenatal care.
Oral Contraceptives
Studies show that oral contraceptives are the leading method of birth control among sexually active women. Oral contraceptives also increase the progesterone in your system, which can lead to inflamed gums. Some medications prescribed by your dentist for periodontal disease can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so be sure to let your dental team know if you are taking them.
Menopause & Post Menopause
Women going through menopause or post-menopause may experience changes in their mouth, including pain and burning sensations, dry mouth, and altered taste. Menopausal gingivostomatitis also affects a small percentage of menopausal women. Some symptoms include gums that appear shiny and dry, gums that bleed easily, and appear either pale or deep red. Estrogen supplements are known to help these conditions.
Bone Loss
Additionally, bone loss is associated with both periodontal disease and osteoporosis. In fact, alveolar bone loss (the bone that holds the tooth in the mouth) is the strongest predictor of tooth loss in post-menopausal women. The risk of tooth loss increases 2.5 times for each millimeter of soft tissue attachment between the tooth and alveolar bone. This bone loss condition is associated with estrogen deficiency after menopause. |
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Contact our family dentistry practice today if you notice any changes in your teeth and mouth.
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