The Menopause
5 ways menopause affects our teeth and gums (and what to do about it)
Menopause can bring a number of challenging symptoms. From hot flushes and anxiety, to brain fog and tinnitus, the list can often feel never-ending. But, few people realise that fluctuating hormones can affect our teeth and gums, too.
Here, we chat to Dr Neesha Patel, a specialist periodontist, who reveals five surprising dental changes that can happen during perimenopause and menopause – and what to do about them.
5 ways menopause affects our teeth and gums
An increased risk of periodontal disease
“Hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decline in oestrogen levels, can exacerbate issues in the mouth and compromise our oral health,” says Neesha.
“This increases the risk of periodontal disease, including gingivitis [an early form of gum disease] and periodontitis [a later stage of gum disease], leading to attachment loss and tooth loss.”
Dry mouth
As Neesha explains, hormonal changes in menopause can also mean that we experience a decrease in our flow of saliva, resulting in a dry mouth.
“This can lead to oral discomfort, as well as difficulty chewing and swallowing,” she says. “It may also lead to an increased risk of dental caries [decay] and oral infections.”
Oral discomfort
“This might include burning mouth syndrome, altered taste perception, and increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures,” says Neesha. “These symptoms can significantly impact our quality of life and oral function.”
Osteoporosis-related issues
Post-menopausal women who don’t take HRT are at an increased risk of osteoporosis. This, as Neesha reveals, can cause havoc with our oral health.
“This condition can manifest orally as loss of alveolar bone, tooth mobility, and an increased risk of tooth loss,” she explains.
Replacing oestrogen with HRT can help to slow down bone loss and increase our bone mineral density.
Menopausal gingivostomatitis
“This condition is characterised by red, shiny, and swollen gums, often accompanied by bleeding and discomfort,” says Neesha.
Again, hormonal changes are to blame, but it can also come as a result of a lowered immune system.
What to do about it
Along with regular dental check-ups, the following strategies can help to keep our teeth and gums in tip-top condition:
Considering HRT to help support fluctuating hormone levels.
Engaging in stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness meditation, and yoga to help alleviate menopausal symptoms.
Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily can help too.
Staying hydrated can help to stimulate the flow of saliva.
Using gentle toothpaste and oral care products to help manage sensitivity and limit irritation.
Avoiding sugary foods and mouthwashes that contain alcohol. These can exacerbate a dry mouth.
Making sure we get enough calcium from our diet, and considering a supplement to top up vitamin D levels to keep our teeth and bones strong.
Quitting smoking and limiting our alcohol consumption can help to reduce our risk of osteoporosis-related issues. Both smoking and heavy drinking can negatively impact our bone and oral health by damaging bone-building cells.
