Women and Periodontal Health

Fluctuations in the hormone levels of women may increase the chance of periodontal disease. For this reason, your oral health may require special care during the following stages:

 Puberty

Higher levels of hormones during puberty may lead to gum sensitivity and increased irritation from plaque and food particles if not thoroughly cleaned.

Menstruation

Symptoms similar to those of puberty may occasionally appear before menstruation. The symptoms generally clear up once the period has started. As the amount of sex hormones decrease, so do these problems.

Pregnancy

Between the second and eighth months of pregnancy, you may experience swollen, bleeding, or tender gums. Additionally, lumps may appear along your gumline; these lumps are usually painless and disappear after pregnancy. In the event that they don’t go away on their own, they can be professionally removed.

Because infections during pregnancy – including periodontal disease – can place a baby’s health at risk, you should take great care of your teeth and gums. To minimize your chances of periodontal disease, start with healthy gums and maintain a healthy at-home routine. Be sure to see your dentist as recommended to ensure that your gums stay healthy.

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives are synthetic hormones and mimic the effect of the body’s natural hormones. As a result, the gums may be prone to swelling and bleeding as long as you are using them. To avoid the risk of drug interactions or a reduction in the efficacy of your medications, be sure to tell your dentist what prescriptions you use – including oral contraceptives – prior to any procedure or treatment.

Menopause

Menopause and postmenopause may bring changes to your mouth, including dryness, unusual tastes, or gum discomfort. These symptoms may subside with an oral health regimen that includes brushing after each meal, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist as recommended.