Female hormones influence almost every aspect of your health, including your teeth and gums. Hormone levels change throughout a woman’s life and can put you at risk for gingivitis or periodontal disease. Fortunately, you can take certain precautions to reduce the chances of cavities and gum disease, but first you must understand what hormones have to do with your dental health.

How Hormones Affect Your Oral Health

Higher levels of estrogen and progesterone can increase blood flow to your gums. As a result, your gums are more sensitive and react strongly to irritants. High hormone levels can also make women more sensitive to plaque and bacteria around the gums.

During puberty, the increase in hormone levels can lead to red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Many women experience similar symptoms during their menstrual cycle, but these usually subside when the period stops. Inflammation is also a common side effect with oral contraceptives, but now you can find birth control pills with lower levels of estrogen and progesterone.

You’re also more likely to develop gingivitis during pregnancy due to rising hormone levels. Gingivitis is the precursor to periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss if not checked. Your dental hygienist can be your greatest ally in preventing and diagnosing gum disease with regular cleanings.

Hormones affect your body differently during menopause. At this time, the hormone levels drop, which can lead to dry mouth, bone loss, increased sensitivity, or even a burning sensation in your mouth. Dry mouth increases your risk for a cavity, because less saliva is available to cleanse your teeth.

What You Can Do About It

If you experience dry mouth during menopause, you should make sure to stay hydrated and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco products. It also helps to avoid salty, sticky, and sugary foods. To halt bone loss, it’s important to get enough calcium and vitamin D.  

To prevent cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, it’s important to pay attention to your oral health, especially during times when your hormone levels are high. You can do this by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and eating a healthy diet. You should also schedule regular teeth cleanings, even during pregnancy, to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

To prevent periodontal disease and achieve optimal dental health, you must schedule regular dentist appointments. Give the staff at BridgeView Dental Group a call at (907) 486-3257 to setup a time for a teeth cleaning and exam. These dentists make oral health for patients in Kodiak, AK, a priority. They have many years of experience with a variety of dental procedures, including tooth implants and teeth extractions. They also offer orthodontics and emergency dental services. To learn more about this dental office, visit the website.