Hormones and Gum Disease Linked for Some

Hormonal fluctuations and surges aren’t something you can directly control. Unfortunately, hormones cause side-effects throughout our lives. You may experience mood swings, bloating, blemishes, or any number of unpleasant emotional and physical manifestations of hormones in your years. You may not realize that dental health issues can also be linked to cyclical hormone changes – namely gum disease and other periodontal issues.

Hormonal Surges and Gum Disease

When a young woman hits puberty, estrogen and progesterone begin to ramp up production which can increase blood flow to gum tissues. This leads to an exaggerated response to plaque and tartar build-up. During menstrual cycles throughout a female’s reproductive years, salivary glands and gum tissues can become irritated and inflamed. Women who are prescribed progesterone-based birth control (more commonly known as the pill) sometimes experience puffy, swollen gums. During pregnancy, hormones and oral health often go haywire. The hormonal changes which go along with carrying a baby make gum disease more prevalent in pregnant women. At a later stage of life, menopause (along with meds commonly prescribed as aging brings about various maladies) can cause dry mouth and a decrease in bone density which might increase recession of gum and bone tissue.

Proper Oral Hygiene

Women can still avoid gum disease, regardless of shifts in hormonal levels. Being proactive with good dental hygiene and checkups with Dr. Kania can keep you free of extreme and damaging attachment loss. If hormones are causing extra problems with your oral health, frequent visits to the dentist are in order while your body balances out. Never ignore dry mouth. Proper salivary production is a key element in keeping the mouth free of excess bacteria. No matter what the cause – medications, hormones, or dehydration –if salivary glands are not yielding ample liquid, possible treatments may be in order to help keep teeth and gums healthy.

About Dr. Ann Kania:

As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Ann Kania is specially qualified to diagnose and treat issues concerning periodontal tissue and the supportive structures of a patient’s smile, as well as place dental implants for patients with missing teeth. To seek Dr. Kania’s expertise, visit our office or contact us today at (760) 642-0711.