Hormonal changes can affect a woman’s oral health more than most of us realize. Take plaque and tartar build-up, for instance. Fluctuations in hormones can change the body’s response to the toxins involved. This can potentially lead to higher rates of periodontal disease (gum disease). Your Rochester dentist, Dr. Gilly Calcagno, highlights the ways that hormonal imbalances can affect the health of a woman’s teeth and gums.
Gum Issues From Hormonal Surges
Hormonal surges or fluctuations can happen at any time in a woman’s life. The body’s response to hormones can make women more susceptible to certain oral health problems. When a young woman hits puberty, progesterone and estrogen production can cause an increase of blood flow to gums. During menstrual cycles, gums and salivary glands can become inflamed and irritated. Women who take progesterone based birth control sometimes experience gum swelling that leads their bodies having an exaggerated reaction to plaque. During pregnancy, anything goes with oral health. The hormonal upheaval of carrying a child has been known to lead to gum disease. At a distinctly different stage of life, menopause can cause dry mouth and a decrease in bone density that could cause gum recession.
Battle Hormonal Changes with Proper Oral Hygiene
Women can still avoid gum disease in spite of hormonal shifts. The best proactive measure is to simply brush your teeth twice a day, and floss at least once a day. Bi-annual or six-month checkups from your dentist can keep you free of plaque and tartar build-up. You shouldn’t ignore dry mouth, no matter what the cause – medications, hormones, improper hydration, or none of the above. If your saliva production becomes substantially low, and hydrating yourself isn’t providing relief, your dentist can suggest other possible treatments.
Maintain Your Dental Checkups in Rochester
Maintaining your dental checkups every six months will help women avoid gum disease linked to hormones. If you would like to schedule an examination, contact our Rochester dentist office at (507)281-3659. We are happy to provide patients with comprehensive dentistry in Rochester, Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, the 55902 zip code, and surrounding neighborhoods.
