Two Dental Problems That Are Common During Menopause
The hormonal changes that occur during menopause impact every part of your body, including your teeth and gums. Although dental changes during menopause are less commonly discussed than symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, that does not mean they aren't common. Many women experience one or both of the following dental problems during this stage of life.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inflammation and mild infection of the gums. When you have gingivitis, your gums may appear red and slightly swollen. They may be sensitive to the touch, or bleed when you brush or floss. Because the hormonal changes that occur during menopause often reduce saliva production, making the mouth more appealing to oral bacteria that cause gingivitis, women in this stage of life are more prone to gingivitis than younger women.
How it's treated: If you begin to develop gingivitis as you enter menopause, there's no reason to worry. Most cases clear up with regular brushing and flossing. Using an antibacterial mouthwash or rinse your mouth with salt water to keep the bacteria that contribute to gingivitis at bay. If your gums don't feel better within a few weeks, contact your dentist. He or she may recommend an oral or topical antibiotic to bring your condition under control.
Bone Loss and Loose Teeth
Some menopausal women find that their teeth begin to feel loose. This can occur for two different reasons. In some cases, the looseness is brought on by gingivitis that has been allowed to develop into more advanced gum disease. In its more advanced stages, known as periodontitis, gum disease can eat away at the connective tissues that anchor the teeth to the jawbone. In other cases, menopausal women suffer loose teeth due to bone loss in the jaw bones. This is a symptom of osteoporosis, and often women who suffer loose teeth also suffer from weak bones in other parts of the body.
How it's treated: See your dentist right away if your teeth begin feeling loose. He or she can determine whether the condition is due to gum disease, bone loss or both. If gum disease is to blame, antibiotic treatments and advanced cleaning procedures can be used to keep the disease from progressing. In the case of bone loss, dentures may need to be used to replace teeth that are no longer anchored to the bone.
As you enter menopause, it's important to keep your oral health in mind. Brushing and flossing regularly, as always, will reduce your risk of gum disease. Make sure you let a dentist like Mission Dental Center know when you enter this stage of life, so that he or she can tailor your dental care to your specific needs.