WHAT WOMEN NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HORMONES AND THEIR ORAL HEALTH
Regular visits to your dentist in Belmont are always important, but they become even more critical during periods when your hormones change. Continue reading to learn some facts that dentists want women to know about hormones and their oral health.
Hormones Can Cause Gum Disease
Whenever your body’s hormone levels fluctuate, changes can develop in the mouth. For women who are pregnant, menopausal, or going through puberty, their fluctuating hormones can lead to dry mouth or sensitive gums. Because of this, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can temporarily increase a woman’s risk of gum disease, so your dentist will advise you to practice excellent oral hygiene during these times.
Hormones Can Cause Bad Breath
Experiencing occasional bad breath is normal, but chronic bad breath can be a symptom of a dental problem or medical condition, and it can also be connected to hormone levels. Pregnant women are more susceptible to gum disease, which is a leading cause of chronic bad breath. Menopausal women commonly experience dry mouth, and when there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth, this can allow bacteria to develop more rapidly and lead to bad breath. Finally, birth control can affect your hormone levels and increase your risk of gum disease and tooth decay, linking it to bad breath.
Hormones Can Cause Sensitive Teeth
The many changes that take place in your body when you are pregnant can affect your oral health in several ways, and one of these is a greater risk of sensitive teeth. The increased levels of certain hormones during pregnancy can make your mouth more sensitive to bacteria and cause your teeth and gums to feel sore. Also, the increased blood flow associated with pregnancy can cause your gums to become tender and your teeth to be more sensitive to hot and cold foods. Finally, because pregnant women are more susceptible to gum disease, they are also more likely to experience sensitive teeth, which is a common symptom experienced by individuals who suffer from gum disease.
