Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus, the title of a popular book written back in 1992, explained the difference between men and women. However, the differences between men and women’s oral health was not discussed.
According to Dr. George Sanchez, there are some things to consider when it comes to women’s oral health.
Because women go through hormonal changes throughout their entire lives, women’s oral health is at risk.
Although good oral hygiene helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, regular dental checkups with your Delray Beach dentist are also an essential part of women’s oral health care.
Puberty and Women’s Oral Health
When a girl starts puberty, hormones will go crazy causing gums to bleed, swell, and become red. In some cases, gums may get bigger because the hormones cause an overreaction to bacteria and plaque. Teenage girls in puberty may also experience mouth sores. While it is impossible to prevent puberty, good oral hygiene can help reduce the problems associated with it.
Women’s Oral Health and the Menstrual Cycle
Although most will not notice mouth changes before a period, hormones could be to blame if you suffer from mouth sores, bleeding gums and salivary glands that swell during this time. Over time these problems with stop along with your period. If they don’t, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Delray Beach.
Pregnant Women and Oral Health
Hormones are on overdrive when a woman is expecting a child. Pregnancy gingivitis is a huge problem with pregnant women. This type of gum disease causes sore, tender, red, and bleeding gums. This usually occurs between 2 and 8 months of the pregnancy.
Women’s Oral Health and Menopause
Women notice massive changes during menopause. Foods taste differently while sensitivity is heightened. Women in menopause also experience mouth burning. While it is a result of hormonal changes, other issues can occur.
Bone loss and dry mouth are a huge problem with menopausal women. Dry mouth occurs when you have a decrease in saliva flow putting you in the high-risk category for gum disease and tooth decay.
Dr. Sanchez recommends that women of all ages practice good oral hygiene habits including brushing twice and flossing once each day. Your Delray Beach dentist also recommends that you schedule additional dental appointments if you notice any of the above symptoms.
For more information regarding women’s oral health, call and schedule an appointment with your dentist in Delray Beach today.