For women around the world, fluctuations in hormones caused by menstruation, pregnancy, aging, and menopause can disrupt daily life. You may be wondering how exactly this ties into dentistry, but we’re about to tell you: these hormonal fluctuations also often affect a woman’s oral health. Find out how in this blog from Millennium Smiles in Frisco, Texas.
When you think of the symptoms of menstruation, you probably only think about mood swings and cramps, but the mouth also experiences changes during your cycle. Gums become tender and swollen and become more prone to bleeding than the rest of the month. If you’re experiencing this while brushing, you may be tempted to skip your regular hygiene routine, but don’t! The sensitivity should subside when your cycle ends. However, if it doesn’t, give us a call for a checkup.
Pregnancy means significant changes for the female body and the mouth, too. For some pregnant women, one of those changes is a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. It can happen to anyone, and there’s no special treatment for the disease (yay) – but Again, even the healthiest mouth can get pregnancy gingivitis, thanks to hormonal changes in the body. There is no special treatment required for pregnancy gingivitis – keep brushing and flossing as you usually do. Dr. Korous will want to see you during your pregnancy to monitor your gingivitis, so be sure to talk about checkups and how often you should come in.
Also, many women experience morning sickness during pregnancy, so taking care of your teeth is extra vital as stomach acid can damage the enamel on your teeth. So, if you get sick, but sure to rinse your mouth out with water immediately after vomiting to wash away damaging acids.
And another thing about throwing up; you may be tempted to brush after getting sick, but if possible, wait at least 30 minutes for your enamel to re-harden before you brush. Brushing soft enamel can scratch or damage your teeth.
Menopause is known as “the change” for many reasons; your hair changes, your skin changes, your cycle changes – and your mouth changes, too! One of the changes that happen is that you make less saliva, which can put you at risk of dry mouth. Chronic dry mouth can leave you at risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
For any questions or concerns about your oral health, please contact us at Millennium Smiles in Frisco, Texas, at 972-468-8771.