For women approaching or going through menopause, the drop in estrogen levels can bring a variety of physical changes, including a dry vagina. But did you know that the same hormone decline can also affect your mouth? According to Dr. Katie Lee, a dentist and expert in oral systemic health, this is because the mouth and vagina share similar tissue types. Additionally, “salivary glands have estrogen receptors,” Dr. Lee explains. When estrogen levels fall, so do its positive effects, leading to a decrease in saliva production.
This reduction in saliva can cause several oral health issues, such as digestive problems, a burning sensation in the mouth, and red gums. The lack of estrogen also weakens bones, which can increase the risk of tooth breakage and loss.
However, many dentists have yet to address this issue. According to Delta Dental’s 2024 Oral Health and Menopause Survey, over a third of women aged 40 and older report a decline in their oral health as they age. Despite this, 93% of women want menopause-related advice from their dentist, but only 18% have actually discussed the topic with their provider.
The key to addressing these oral health challenges is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Although recent studies on HRT and oral health are limited, research from the past decade suggests that hormone therapy can improve gum health and reduce the risk of tooth loss. Dr. Lee stresses that the goal is to keep inflammation under control, which is crucial for oral and overall health. Proper hormone balance, she explains, can help reduce inflammation and minimize the risk of bacteria from the mouth entering the bloodstream, potentially causing damage to other parts of the body.
Oral bacteria have been linked to serious conditions such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, heart disease, gut problems, and arthritis. Therefore, maintaining oral health during menopause is crucial for your overall well-being.
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