Encinitas Periodontist Discusses the Incidence of Gum Disease in Women

Did you know that women typically take better care of their oral health than men? Even though women, on average, floss and brush their teeth more thoroughly than men, women have a higher rate of gum (periodontal) disease. You have probably noticed how often we have talked about the health of your mouth affecting your entire body. Many people believe that gum disease is only caused by poor oral hygiene. However, in reality gum disease may be influenced by a number of factors. For women, hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause may result in triggers that increase the risk of developing gum disease.

Puberty and Gum Disease

During puberty, blood flow is increased to the gum tissue. This occurs because the body releases higher levels of hormones such as progesterone and estrogen. Girls may experience tender, red, or swollen gums during puberty, too. Over time, gum sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations will lessen. Dr. Ann Kania recommends that her patients take extra care of their oral health during puberty by flossing and brushing thoroughly.  A power brush and antimicrobial rinse may be recommended.

Pregnancy and Gum Disease

Some women develop gingivitis during pregnancy. Common symptoms of gum disease during pregnancy include gums that bleed when brushing or flossing or tender gums. Gingivitis typically develops during the second month of pregnancy and may progressively worsen until the eighth month. Some research indicates that gum disease is linked to early births and lower birth weights. It should also be noted that women who take common birth control medications may experience gingivitis, too.

Menopause and Gum Disease

Like pregnancy and puberty, hormonal fluctuations during menopause affect gum health, too. Women that develop gum disease during menopause experience dry mouth, thinning tissues, discomfort, and changes in the way food tastes. Additionally, their facial bones may be affected. Some evidence suggests that there may be an association between gum disease and osteoporosis.

Dr. Kania strongly encourages women to take charge of their oral health with meticulous oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups. If you notice that your teeth feel loose, gums that bleed, or other changes in gum health, contact our Encinitas periodontist office at (760) 642-0711. We serve patients from Del Mar, La Costa, Rancho Santa Fe, Oceanside, San Marcos, and San Diego.

Dr. Ann Kania

Share
Published by
Dr. Ann Kania

Recent Posts

Reshaping Smiles With Gum GraftsReshaping Smiles With Gum Grafts

Reshaping Smiles With Gum Grafts

When you don’t have your periodontal disease managed with routine care, this can allow the…

1 week ago
Pinhole Grafts For Receding GumsPinhole Grafts For Receding Gums

Pinhole Grafts For Receding Gums

Periodontal disease is an infection that occurs due to plaque buildup around the roots of…

1 week ago
How Perio Protect Trays Keep Smiles StrongHow Perio Protect Trays Keep Smiles Strong

How Perio Protect Trays Keep Smiles Strong

When you have the early stages of periodontal disease, or if you have received laser…

3 weeks ago

Easing Gum Disease With REPAIR Lasers

In our previous blog, we talked about how the LANAP system can help treat periodontal…

4 weeks ago

How LANAP Strengthens Your Gums

If you have a more severe case of gum disease and need treatment to avoid…

1 month ago

How We Help Smiles With Holistic Treatments

Whether you have the early stage of the disease or have recently received laser treatment,…

1 month ago