Menopause affects women's bodies in various ways, and while awareness is growing beyond just hot flashes and night sweats, many are still unaware of its full impact. One often-overlooked area is oral health. A recent survey commissioned by U.K. health provider Bupa revealed that 90% of Brits don’t realise menopause can affect their teeth, gums, and mouth.
Out of 2,001 people surveyed, 86% of women and 94% of men had no idea that menopause could lead to oral health problems.
In reality, menopause can increase the risk of gum disease, toothache, and even tooth loss, but with proper care and treatment, these issues can often be managed.
Why Does Menopause Impact Oral Health?
Hormonal changes during menopause, particularly the drop in estrogen, affect much more than just the reproductive system. Estrogen plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
“We need estrogen for almost every single function in a woman’s body,” explains Dr. Sam Wild, family doctor and women’s health clinical lead at Bupa. “As estrogen levels fall, it makes women more susceptible to oral health problems.”
Dentist Jason B. Cellars of Seacliff Dental in California adds that reduced blood flow to the gums during menopause increases the risk of gum recession, making teeth appear longer and darker. “Bone loss from periodontal disease is another concern,” he notes, as menopause can reduce the body’s defence against infection, leading to cavities and bone loss around teeth.
Dry Mouth: A Common Menopausal Symptom
Dry mouth is one of the most prevalent oral health issues faced by menopausal women. Menopause leads to a drop in saliva production and changes in its consistency, says Bupa Dental Care hygienist Caitlin Miller. “Saliva can become sticky and thick, causing problems with speech, swallowing, and leading to bad breath,” she explains.
Dry mouth encourages bacterial growth, which can cause tooth decay, gum disease, sensitivity, and eventually tooth loss. “Saliva neutralises the mouth after eating and helps prevent cavities,” Dr. Cellars adds. When saliva decreases, the risk of developing cavities skyrockets.
Burning Mouth Syndrome
Another common issue linked to menopause is "burning mouth syndrome." This condition causes a constant, painful sensation in the mouth or throat, which can be debilitating. “It can also alter the taste, especially for salty and sour foods,” says Dr. Wild.
The Mental Health Connection
Menopause often comes with mental health challenges, and oral health problems can exacerbate these issues. “Women can lose their self-confidence and self-esteem due to the physical and emotional changes happening,” Dr. Wild says. “If they also feel like they have bad breath, it only adds to their distress.”
Importance of Regular Dental Care
With these potential risks, regular dental check-ups become even more crucial during menopause. Taking care of oral health can mitigate some of the challenges menopause brings, ensuring better overall well-being during this life stage.
For more information on managing oral health and other menopause-related issues, consult a healthcare professional and make sure to stay on top of regular dental visits.
Note: Originally Published By Katherine Hignett, Senior Contributor, https://www.forbes.com/
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