The symptoms of menopause can be difficult enough for women to deal with, but along with the night sweats, hot flashes, moodiness, and fatigue, they also need to contend with issues that arise postmenopause. Studies show that there’s a higher risk of tooth loss in postmenopausal women because the decline in estrogen can lead to bone loss that also affects oral health. Many women take calcium supplements and medications to prevent the loss of bone mass from menopause and postmenopause. This can be helpful with oral health as research indicates that bone loss may have a connection with the increased risk of gum disease/periodontal disease.
Study findings
Recently, the National Institutes of Health revealed the results of their study on women after menopause who were experiencing signs of osteoporosis and on those women who weren’t experiencing osteoporosis signs. Their study found that there was an increased risk of gum disease in the women experience osteoporosis, and as gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults, these findings shouldn’t be ignored.
Susceptibility to gum disease
The majority of postmenopausal women have issues that increase their susceptibility to gum disease and other oral health problems. One of these issues is a reduction in saliva, which can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease. The hormonal changes in menopause not only increase the risk of osteoporosis, but they also increase the chances of women suffering Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease. Many women choose hormone replacement to alleviate symptoms, which may reduce the risk of overall and oral health issues after menopause. When women take care of their overall wellness and strive to remain healthy, they also improve their oral health and reduce the chances of gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. Despite popular belief, dentures are not a natural part of the aging process and retaining natural teeth for as long as possible is the main goal of proper oral hygiene and overall wellness.
The risk factors of aging and health changes have a direct effect on your ability to maintain proper oral health. Make sure you tell your dental professional about any health issues you’re experiencing so they can work with you to develop an effective treatment plan that restores and protects your beautiful, healthy smile.
Your well-being and oral health are extremely important to the dental professionals at Greater Baltimore Prosthodontics. Discuss any dental health concerns you have at your next appointment or contact us to set up an exam today.
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