Managing Dental Care During the Hormonal Changes of Menopause and Perimenopause

Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life can significantly affect her oral health, impacting her mouth, teeth, and gums. While menopause is a well-known phase associated with these changes, other stages like puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and perimenopause can also lead to various oral health challenges.

Despite these effects, nearly 20% of Australian women^* are unaware of how menopause could impact their dental health. Perimenopause and menopause bring about significant changes due to fluctuating hormone levels. Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, and their decrease during these stages can potentially lead to issues such as:

1. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Hormonal changes can result in reduced saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralising acids and protecting against cavities.
2. Inflamed Gums: Hormonal fluctuations may make your gums more sensitive, prone to inflammation, and susceptible to bleeding, a condition often referred to as menopausal gingivostomatitis.
3. Altered Taste and Oral Discomfort: The decrease in oestrogen and progesterone can lead to changes in taste perception, making certain foods taste different or unpleasant. Some women may also experience a burning sensation in the mouth, known as burning mouth syndrome.
4. Bite Changes: Lower estrogen levels can contribute to bone resorption in the jaw, potentially altering bite alignment.
5. Bone Density and Tooth Loss: Decreased estrogen levels can affect bone density, including the jawbone supporting the teeth. This can increase the risk of tooth mobility and even tooth loss.

Being Proactive with Your Oral Health

Taking proactive steps to manage your oral health during periods of hormonal change can help prevent long-term dental issues. Here’s how you can stay ahead:

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist become even more vital during perimenopause and menopause. Professional check-ups can detect and address issues early and prevent serious long-term problems. Despite this, one in four women (25%) only visit the dentist when something hurts or there is an obvious issue.
• At Home Oral hygiene: Currently, around 1 in 4 women brush their teeth only once a day, and less than a quarter (24%) floss daily. Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is essential. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and using floss or interdental brushes can help maintain oral health.
• Saliva Stimulation: Staying hydrated and chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.
• Diet and Nutrition: Eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports bone health and overall oral well-being, reducing the impact of hormonal changes on your teeth and gums.
• Discuss Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) With Your Dentist: If you’re undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or any other hormonal treatment, inform your dentist. They can provide guidance on how to manage any potential oral health implications that may arise.

The key to maintaining your oral health during hormonal changes is to be proactive. Women’s Health Week is a great reminder to prioritize your well-being and take control of your dental health. Speak to your dentist about how you can manage your symptoms and book an appointment today.

*Are Media Healthonomics Dental Health Survey 2024, women aged 25-54
^ IBIS World Research 2024: Australian Female population 18 & Older: 10.5 Million