Can women's oral health be affected by the changes in hormone levels? Hormone fluctuations not only affect woman's overall health, making it more important than ever to pay attention to any changes that occur in the mouth.
Young Women
Hormones - Some young women may occasionally experience swollen, red and tender gums during puberty. This is caused by a rise in the levels of sex hormones which leads to increased blood flow to the gums.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders rob the body of adequate minerals, vitamins, proteins and other nutrients needed for good health causing potential injury to teeth, muscles and major organs. Eating disorders such as bulimia can negatively affect oral health and may result in tooth erosion.
Women - Ages 20-45
Pregnant women and women who take oral contraceptives may be at increased risk for gingivitis if dental plaque is not removed on daily basis.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women have an increased risk of inflammation of gums because increases in hormone levels cause increased gum sensitivity. Gum sensitivity results in exaggerated response to dental plaque.
Some studies appear to indicate that women with periodontal disease may be at increased risk for preterm, low birth weight babies.
Dry Socket
Women who use birth control pills are more likely to develop a dry socket when a tooth is extracted and therefore should consult with their dentist before scheduling an extraction procedure.
Medications and Prescriptions.
The use of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, such as diet pills, may affect your oral health. These medications decrease salivary flow and cause dry mouth. Dry mouth is a condition in which there is insufficient saliva to keep the mouth moist. This condition can place a woman at higher risk for tooth decay, gum disease and gum discomfort.
Osteoporosis
Over one-third of women over age 65 face the onset of osteoporosis. While affects both men and women, postmenopausal women are suspecting to osteoporosis because diminished estrogens levels may Speed up bone loss.
7 Tips for women to maintain good oral health:
1. Pay attention to your gums during and following your menstrual periods. If your gums become swollen during periods, consult your dentist.
2. Beware of your oral health make regular dental visits and see you dentist at first sign of trouble.
3. If you're pregnant see your dentist at least once during pregnancy.
4. Tell your dentist about changes in your medical history and about any medications you are taking, and talk to your dentist or physician, if you are oral or general health problems.
5. Use a fluoride toothpaste and drink fluoridated water.
6. Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
7. Eat a balanced diet and limit in between meals carbohydrate snacks. Drink water instead of soft drinks.