Hormones and your oral health

Women experience many changes over the years with their hormone levels. Between puberty and menopause, these hormonal fluctuations can have an impact on weight, mood, and sex drive. But did you also know that hormones can impact your oral health? Dr. Steven E. Holbrook and his team in Albuquerque, NM work with women to help them understated how hormones affect their oral health and what they can do to ensure a healthy smile for many, many years!

What hormonal changes can impact oral health?

• Puberty – during the teen years, many changes occur during puberty. Common concerns seen at this time include red, swollen gums and even a jump in canker sore development. Maintaining good oral health habits can reduce discomfort, inflammation, and bleeding during this time.
• Periods – menstrual changes impact many things each month, including the gums. Swollen and bleeding gums can occur during a woman’s period, and will resolve when it stops. However, if these changes occur but do not go away after a week or two, it may be time to visit the dentist for an evaluation.
• Pregnancy – during pregnancy, hormones are almost in hyperdrive, and can cause women to experience pregnancy-related gingivitis. This is commonly seen between months two through eight during pregnancy, and can be usually kept under control with daily care. Maintaining a smile free from periodontal disease is also important during this time, as periodontal disease is linked to birth concerns including preterm labor and low birth weights.
• Menopause – during menopause, the body is going through a lot of hormonal changes during this transition. It can cause patients to experience bone loss through osseointegration and experience dry mouth.

Discuss your hormones and dental health with a professional

Dr. Steve E. Holbrook and his team in Albuquerque, New Mexico work directly with women who are concerned about the impact their hormonal changes have on their oral health. If you live in the community and are interested in talking with a dental professional about your hormones and oral health, call (505) 881-1159 today to request a consultation visit. Our team can educate you on what to expect as your oral health changes with hormonal impacts. The practice is located at 8228 Louisiana Boulevard, NE Suite C and accepts new patients.