How Gum Disease Affects Women

By Sina Reangber, DDS

As a woman, you know your health needs are unique. You also know that at specific times in your life, you need to take extra care of yourself. Times when you mature and change, for example, puberty or menopause, and times when you have special health needs, such as menstruation or pregnancy. Did you know that your oral health needs also change at these times?

Special considerations need to be taken during these transitional times in a woman's life as the needs for her oral care greatly increase. The ramifications of not taking the extra care required can have a devastating impact on a woman's oral care if extra care is not taken during these transitional times.

This article will be the first in a two part series that will address the risks involved with not properly caring for your oral health. Over the two parts of this article, we will focus on the specific changes that affect a woman's oral health during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and even menopausal and post menopausal stages in a woman's life.

During puberty an increased level of sex hormones, such as progesterone and possibly estrogen, causes increased blood circulation to the gums. This may cause an increase in the gum's sensitivity and lead to a greater reaction to any irritation, including food particles and plaque.

During Puberty

As a young woman progresses through puberty, the tendency for her gums to swell in response to irritants will lessen. However, during puberty, it is important to follow a good at-home oral hygiene regimen, including regular brushing and flossing, and regular dental care. In some cases, a dental professional may recommend periodontal therapy to help prevent damage to the tissues and bone surrounding the teeth.

Menstruation Gingivitis

Occasionally, some women experience menstruation gingivitis. Women with this condition may experience bleeding gums, bright red and swollen gums and sores on the inside of the cheek. Menstruation gingivitis typically occurs right before a woman's period and clears up once her period has started.

Hormonal Fluctuation

Careful periodontal monitoring and excellent oral hygiene is especially important for women who may be noticing changes in their mouths during times of hormonal fluctuation. To help ensure good oral (and overall) health, be sure to work closely with your dental health care professional to create an oral health care plan that will incorporate extra care during these times and guarantee and promote excellent oral health.