Menopause Oral Health: 6 Issues To Look Out For
Oral health and peri and post-menopause.
Did you know gum disease is one of the 34 most common signs of the menopausal years?
Just as the fluctuating hormones of pregnancy can send us on a trip to the dental chair, so too can the fluctuating hormonal activity of perimenopause / menopause.
In fact, although it gets far less press than – say – hot flushes – problems with oral health during perimenopause is quite common.
Just as the fluctuating hormones of pregnancy can send us on a trip to the dental chair, so too can the fluctuating hormonal activity of perimenopause/menopause. Share on X
Why do perimenopause and post menopause trigger oral health issues?
As you know many of the pesky signs we suffer are due to fluctuating levels of estrogen as well as the natural ageing process. In fact, because the estrogen rollercoaster of perimenopause is systemic, estrogen loss impacts not just the gums and teeth but the salivary glands, taste buds and jawbone as well.
It can also make our tastebuds less sensitive to sucrose (sugar), which can be why some of us crave sweet foods.
Perimenopause can make our tastebuds less sensitive to sucrose (sugar), which is why some of us crave sweet foods. Share on X
It’s a serious business because these oral health issues can lead to gum disease like gingivitis (early stage) or the more serious periodontal disease (advanced), which can lead to lost bone and tooth fall out.
What type of signs should I look out for?
- Bleeding when brushing
- A dry mouth (xerostomia),
- Receding gums
- Tooth breakage or loss
- Toothache
- A metallic taste in the mouth
Did you know? Gum problems can increase the risk of heart disease.
What can you do?
You know some of what we’re going to suggest, don’t you?
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a good toothbrush and paste.
- Have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months.
- Visit the dentist for a checkup regularly. It seems like a no-brainer but you’d be amazed how many of us put this off. (It’s so expensive!)
- Take up oil pulling which is great for killing oral bacterial naturally.
- Give up smoking.
How to Oil Pull
Oil pulling is taken from the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and is said to whiten teeth, freshen breath, clear the skin and increase energy. Use pure coconut or sesame oil but be mindful of not swallowing it. Coconut oil isn’t great for cholesterol.
- Put one or two teaspoons of oil in the mouth
- Swish. Twenty minutes is optimum if you can make it, but try and aim for at least three to 10 minutes.
- Spit out and brush.
