How menopause affects oral health

During menopause, the drop in estrogen can lead to complications such as receding gums, dry mouth, burning sensations, and loose teeth or tooth loss. Hormonal changes also disrupt the balance of the oral microbiota, and factors such as anxiety or skipping dental visits increase the risk. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly, and coordinate with your gynecologist, among other practices.

The Relationship Between Menopause and Oral Health

The estrogens play an important role in many bodily processes, including regulating bone metabolism, maintaining collagen and soft tissues, modulating the inflammatory response, and stimulating saliva production. During the transition period leading up to menopause, levels of these hormones in the body gradually decline, leading to a series of physiological changes. 

In the mouth, this lack of estrogen can accelerate bone loss of the alveolar bone that supports the teeth; reduce both the quantity and quality of saliva and its ability to protect the oral cavity from bacteria; weaken the soft tissues, resulting in inflammation and bleeding of the gums; and compromise the integrity of the oral epithelium. 

In addition to these changes, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem can deter oral care, as well as dietary changes that increase sugar intake.

Oral symptoms during menopause

Although every woman experiences menopause differently, there are oral symptoms that frequently appear during this stage: from thinning of the oral mucosa and gum recession to thrush and loose teeth or tooth loss. Recognizing these symptoms early helps prevent more serious problems and receive appropriate treatment.

1. Thinning of the oral mucosa

Estrogens play a role in tissue healing and regeneration. When estrogen levels decline, the oral mucosa becomes thinner and more fragile, which increases the likelihood of ulcers and lesions which, if not treated properly, may take longer to heal.

Gingival recession

The gums recede, exposing part of the tooth root, which causes increased tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of root decay. It is associated with chronic inflammation and bone loss.

3. Xerostomia (dry mouth)

Dry dry mouth is common during menopause because hormonal changes affect the salivary glands. It causes difficulty speaking or swallowing, persistent bad breath, and an increased risk of cavities and yeast infections.

4. Changes in taste

You may experience a metallic taste, a reduced sense of taste, and an increased perception of bitter or salty flavors. These changes are associated with alterations in the nerves and saliva.

5. Burning sensation in the mouth

Also known as burning mouth syndrome it causes a burning sensation on the tongue, palate, and lips, without any visible lesions. It appears to be related to hormonal changes, as well as neurological and psychological factors, such as anxiety or stress.

6. Oral thrush

A dry mouth and a weakened immune system promote the growth of Candida albicans, which produces white patches that flake off, redness, pain, or a burning sensation, and may appear under dentures.

7. Tooth mobility and tooth loss

Hormonal changes contribute to bone loss as well as the development of periodontal disease, which are the main causes of tooth mobility or tooth loss due to damage caused to the tissues that support them.

Hormonal changes and periodontal disease

Under normal conditions, a wide variety of microorganisms coexist in balance in the mouth, helping to maintain oral health. During menopause, this balance is disrupted by a decrease in saliva, changes in pH, and alterations in the immune response. This promotes the growth of bacteria associated with periodontitis, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia.

Women are more likely to develop gum disease than men, and hormonal changes are one of the main causes. Furthermore, given that there is a link between periodontitis and other diseases, it is important to diagnose and treat it early.

Ideally, you should include specific products in your oral hygiene routine, such as GingiKIN B5, formulated to promote gum health and help prevent cavities. It can be a great ally during this stage of a woman’s life.

How to Take Care of Your Oral Health During Menopause

1. Good oral hygiene

Brush your teeth 2 or 3 times a day with a fluoride toothpaste containing 1,000 to 1,500 ppm fluoride, and floss or use interdental brushes every day to control dental biofilm where the toothbrush cannot reach. 

2. Balanced diet

Nutrition is key. Reduce sugar intake, especially between meals, and increase your consumption of fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones healthy. Drink enough water to prevent dry mouth. 

3. Healthy habits

Limit alcohol consumption and avoid tobacco, as both increase the risk of periodontal disease and oral cancer. In addition, staying well-hydrated, getting adequate rest, and managing stress promote oral health during menopause.

4. Dental appointments

See your dentist at least every 6 months for checkups and professional cleanings. It’s important to schedule your next appointment sooner if you notice warning signs such as bleeding gums, tooth or gum pain, loose teeth, or dry mouth.

5. Coordination with the gynecologist

It is important to mention any oral symptoms during medical checkups. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy prescribed by a specialist can improve oral health.