Perimenopause & Dental Health

Teeth Need Love Too during Perimenopause

Your changing hormones during perimenopause can affect the blood supply to the gums, as well as make you more sensitive to damage from plaque. Your gums become more sensitive, which increases your risk of gum disease. And, of course, smoking and eating junk food only exacerbates the situation.

Some of the dental and oral symptoms you may notice as you go through perimenopause are:

• Dry mouth
• More sensitivity to hot/cold food/drink
• Changes in how things taste (for instance, sweet, salt, and sour).

The American Academy of Periodontology lists some of the symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Bleeding gums during brushing
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Loose or separating teeth
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  

Note: See a periodontist if you are having gum problems.

If you've been sliding by with minimal care for your teeth and gums, now is the time to begin caring for them in earnest. Just running the brush over them every once in a while for 20 seconds could lead to very expensive dental bills. Why not just take the couple of minutes each day to prevent dental problems?

Osteoperosis and Gum Disease

Connected to good dental health is checking for osteoporosis. After all, your teeth are made from bones. According to the American Academy of Periodontology: "Researchers have suggested a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw. Studies suggest that osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone that supports the teeth may be decreased, which means the teeth no longer have a solid foundation."

Tips for Dental Health