Hormones can cause problems with women’s oral health. Our hormone levels change throughout our lives as we go through different stages like puberty, pregnancy or the menopause. Then every month when we go through our menstrual cycle. Each of those four clear stages see different demands on our oral health.

Technically there is a fifth stage but that isn’t as widely discussed, that is how the use of oral contraception can impact women’s oral health. But apparently this is worst during the first few months of use, the body seems to adjust over time. However, it’s something worth noting and talking to your dentist about.

Why do hormones affect our teeth?

Female hormones, oestrogen and progesterone, are critical to a woman’s oral health. The creation and circulation of female hormones causes more blood flows to the gums, making them tender and susceptible to the plaque and bacteria that accumulates around them.

Women’s hormones also mean they are more prone to sensitivity than men. I struggle with eating ice cream whereas my husband seems completely fine! I also have to use sensitive toothpaste very regularly otherwise my poor teeth and gums feel worse. Apparently, its because the increase in hormones also increases the blood flow to our gums making everything more sensitive.

Puberty

In puberty there is a higher blood flow which can alter how the gums react to bacteria, they can become swollen, and red. Teenage habits can also contribute to poor oral health around now. They might skip brushing or eat the wrong foods. Teenage brains also love to reward themselves, and sugar increases dopamine levels, giving them a happy rush so they like to eat all the wrong things. But that can have a negative effect on their teeth and gums.

Menstrual Cycle

During your menstrual cycle you can be more prone to swollen red or bleeding gums because of the increase in progesterone levels. Your gums will be more likely to be inflamed until your hormone levels settle down again. It’s important to make sure you are following a good dental hygiene routine all year round but especially during your menstrual cycle. This is when you are at a higher risk of gum disease. They even have a name for it Menstruation Gingivitis!

Pregnancy

During pregnancy your teeth will need more attention. Fortunately, we are provided with free dental care in the UK during pregnancy (and until the baby is 12 months old) because you are more prone to gum disease and cavities at this time. Chocolate and sweet foods are common cravings in pregnancy, this isn’t great for your teeth either. The sugar will interact with the bacteria in plaque and makes acid. That acid leads to dental erosion.

It’s quite easy to feel stressed when your pregnant with the extra aches and pains and worries. It is a big responsibility carrying your unborn child after all. So, its good to know chewing sugar free gum has been proven to help with stress and wellbeing.

Menopause

During the menopause when oestrogen levels start to drop off then many women experience a loss of bone density. This is because oestrogen normally helps to keep bones strong. Signs this is happening is receding gums. Unfortunately with more exposed tooth your more susceptible to decay. You might also have a problem with loose teeth. The drop of oestrogen also impacts moisture levels, leading to a dry mouth condition with less saliva production. This can be quite uncomfortable, making it harder to swallow. It affects 30% of those aged over 65.

Saliva also helps neutralize acids. A healthy person produces 0.75 and 1.5 litres of saliva each day and it plays a valuable role. Fortunately chewing sugar free gum can help increase salivary flow because you are chewing more. This saliva neutralizes acid, soothes inflammation and rids the mouth of bacteria and plaque.

What Can You Do To Help?

We have no choice really but to deal with our hormones. However, we can protect our teeth and gums during these four stages. There are many solutions to hormone-induced oral health issues.

Dental Hygiene

Vitally important is a good home-cleaning and hygiene regime. Always brush your teeth regularly and don’t forget to use floss once a day and interdental brushes. Mouthwash is safe even in pregnancy, which can also help in your fight against tooth decay.

Visit The Dentist

Never put off a visit to your dentist. Even though it has become more difficult during the period of the pandemic, dentists are still best placed to advise on oral issues caused by hormonal changes. The research you do at home might miss something important, so get professional advice.

Sugar Free Gum

Buy some sugar-free chewing gum to help with issues related to women’s oral health. Research by the Department of Dentistry at King’s College London in 2019 found that people who chew sugar-free gum develop 28% fewer cavities than those who do not. The equivalent figure for fluoride toothpastes and other supplements was 24%. Sugar-free chewing gum alleviates inflamed gums and dry mouth by stimulating saliva production by up 10 to 12 times the normal amount.

These can alleviate symptoms and prevent the onset of more serious problems such as needing dental implants.