IS THERE A CONNECTION AMONG HORMONES AND PERIODONTAL DISEASE?
The quick answer is yes, there is a connection among feminine hormones (particularly progesterone and estrogen) and gum (periodontal) disease. Throughout the multiple phases of the life of a female (pregnancy, puberty, and menopause), changes in hormone generation can disturb your gum health. For females in Durham, NC it’s essential to be informed on the way your hormones change your gum health and what you can do to bypass issues. In this blog by our staff at DentalWorks – Durham, we talk about the stages where females are more vulnerable to gum (periodontal) disease and how you can enhance your oral health. Concentrating on your gum health can allow you to avoid issues such as loose teeth and a receding gumline because of the two stages of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). If you have any concerns regarding your oral health, feel free to call our dental office in Durham, NC to arrange a dental consultation and examination with our skilled dental team.
WHEN WOMEN ARE PRONE TO HORMONAL CHANGES
It is during a few stages of life when a woman’s hormones can change wildly and affect her gums and teeth. These are puberty, menopause, and pregnancy. Utilizing hormone-based contraceptive approaches may also alter your gum health. Being aware of when to anticipate gum inflammation and sensitivity can allow you to worry less if you observe that your gums are red or bleeding at specific instances. Nonetheless, you should share all worries to our dental team in Durham, NC so they can evaluate if your symptoms are related to hormone changes or gum (periodontal) disease.
- GUM SENSITIVITY DURING PUBERTY
At the onset of puberty and during the adolescent years, females undergo a surge in the production of hormones. This could lead to elevated movement of blood to the gum tissue, leading to red, inflamed, and tender gums. Sensitivity in your gums might be a problem for several days prior to a woman’s menstrual cycle has begun as a side effect of PMS, also known as premenstrual syndrome.
- GUM PROBLEMS FROM BIRTH CONTROL
Birth control that is hormone based for females (usually, taken as an injection or daily pill) may impact your gum health. The artificial hormones that prevent pregnancy might cause swelling in your gum tissue and TMJ (temporomandibular joints). Talk to your hygienist or dentist about any medications you’re taking and ask your doctor about alternate medications if your method is making your gums tender, swollen, or bleed easily.
- GINGIVITIS DURING PREGNANCY
Similar to the start of puberty, when a woman is pregnancy there is a change in hormone activity. Increased production of progesterone, particularly in the last six months, increase the risk of gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease.
- GUM ISSUES DURING MENOPAUSE
In menopause and perimenopause, most women notice physical changes when their production of hormones decreases. A typical complaint during this period is a dry mouth. Less saliva means less food debris, plaque, and bacteria are naturally cleaned away during the day and this can increase your risk of periodontal (gum) disease. If you have a dry mouth, drink more water and rinse with a mouthwash designed to help with dry mouth.
HOW CAN I PREVENT GUM DISEASE?
When you notice inflammation or sensitivity of your gums are tied to hormonal changes, there are still ways to help your gum health. It starts with a good routine at home with daily flossing and brushing plus bi-annual visits to a dentist’s office in Durham, NC for annual exams and dental cleanings. If you are worried about gum problems, talk to your dental team so they can provide suggestions.
- FLOSSING EVERY DAY
No matter whether you floss after or before brushing, be sure you’re flossing once a day or more. If you haven’t been flossing regularly, your gums may bleed and feel a little sore initially, but your gums will quickly become less sensitive.
- DENTAL EXAMS
In order to stop gum disease early, schedule a dental exam once a year. If issues like gum disease are caught in the early stages, you have better treatment choices, for example, SRP therapy (scaling and root planing), rather than gum surgery.
- BRUSHING YOUR TEETH AND GUMS
With a soft-bristled manual or electric toothbrush, gently clean your gums and teeth twice a day. Brushing to clear away bacteria, tartar, and plaque that triggers gingivitis. Giving your gums a quick massage with your toothbrush can help to boost blood flow in the soft tissue, which can make your gums healthier.
- TEETH CLEANINGS
Although flossing and brushing every day is incredibly important, a professional cleaning addresses buildup in hard-to-reach areas. In your cleaning, a hygienist will use professional equipment to remove hardened areas of tartar and plaque without hurting your teeth.
- SPEAK TO YOUR DENTAL TEAM
When you are worried about your gums and you’d like to check that you’re flossing and brushing properly, speak to your hygienist or dentist in Durham, NC. Tell your dental team about any over-the-counter or prescription medication you’re taking, plus any general health concerns and medical conditions.
AT EVERY LIFE STAGE, KEEP YOUR GUMS HEALTHY
At every age, keep your gums healthy and strong. Get a dental exam by a dentist in Durham, NC to look for gum (periodontal) disease. If you’re searching for an amazing team who offer treatments such as SRP therapy (scaling and root planing) plus periodontal surgery, reach out to DentalWorks – Durham to schedule an appointment. We’re happy to help new patients boost their dental health, so they get a smile they’re proud to show off.
