As a woman, you know that your health needs are unique. You may be more susceptible to oral health problems because of the unique hormonal changes they experience. Hormones affect not only the blood supply to the gum tissue but also the body's response to the toxins (poisons) that result from plaque or tartar buildup on teeth. Times when you mature and change, for example, puberty or menopause, and times when you have special health needs, such as menstruation or pregnancy. Did you know that your oral health needs also change at these times?
There are five situations in a women's life during which hormonal changes make them more prone to dental health problems – during puberty, during monthly menstrual cycle, while using birth control pills, during pregnancy time, and after menopause.
PUBERTY:- During puberty, an increased level of sex hormones, such as progesterone and possibly estrogen, causes increased blood circulation to the gums. This may cause an increase in the gum's sensitivity and lead to a greater response to any irritation, including food particles and plaque. During this time, the gums may become swollen, turn red, feel tender and more likely to bleed while brushing.
MENSTRUAL CYCLE:- Menstruation gingivitis usually occurs a day or two before the start of the period and clears up shortly after the period has started. You may experience bleeding gums, bright red and swollen gums and sores inside mouth. Stay on top of your daily dental health routine, and if you find you have more sensitivity than usual before or during your period, schedule cleaning of teeth for about a week after it ends.
BIRTH CONTROL PILLS:-During this stage patient may experience inflamed gum tissues due to the body's exaggerated reaction to the toxins produced from plaque. Tell your dentist if you are taking birth control pills.
PREGNANCY:- Hormone levels fluctuate considerably during pregnancy. Women may experience increased gingivitis or pregnancy gingivitis beginning in the second or third month of pregnancy that increases in severity throughout the eighth month. During this time, some women may notice swelling, bleeding, redness or tenderness in the gum tissue. In some cases, gums swollen by pregnancy gingivitis can react strongly to irritants and form growth on gums. These growths, called pregnancy tumors, are not cancerous and are usually painless. Tell your dentist if you are pregnant in case you get any dental treatment done during this time period.
MENOPAUSE:- Symptoms in mouth experienced during this stage of a women's life include red or inflamed gums, pain and discomfort, burning sensations, altered taste sensations and dry mouth. Talk to your dentist if your mouth is feeling dry. “If dry mouth is a problem, suck on ice chips or sugar-free candy, drink water or other caffeine-free drinks to help reduce the dryness.
Keep your dentist informed during dental visits about any medications you are taking and any changes in your health history.
Lastly, Brush and floss properly every day. Keep yourself and your smile healthy.