Hormones have an effect on every aspect of your health, and oral health is no different. For women, the two main hormones are estrogen and progesterone. These both have an influence on blood flow and inflammatory response in gum tissue.
From puberty to menopause, fluctuations or changes in hormone levels can increase the risk of periodontitis (gum disease) by increasing the presence of plaque and bacteria levels in your mouth. If you notice unusual symptoms such as red, swollen, and tender gums or bleeding when you brush your teeth, contact your dentist or a qualified periodontist.
Puberty and the Teenage Years: Initial Sensitivity
Puberty typically occurs during the adolescent years (age 10-14). During this time girls will likely experience the first major surge of estrogen and progesterone in their lifetime. These elevated hormone levels increase blood circulation to the gums, which can result in redness, tenderness, and even bleeding when brushing or flossing.
Although puberty is a temporary state, it can last for a few years. During this time it is important to pay close attention to oral hygiene, making sure to brush twice a day and floss once a day. It can help to use mouthwash as well to reduce bacteria levels in your mouth, reaching even the smallest spaces where bacteria can gather.
The Menstrual Cycle: Temporary Gum Inflammation
From the first menstrual cycle during puberty throughout the fertile years, women experience hormone fluctuations during their time of the month. Hormones tend to spike before menstruation, then drop during, before leveling out after the period is over.
During each menstrual cycle you may notice an increase in gum sensitivity and even temporary gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Be sure to brush and floss regularly during this time to prevent gingivitis from progressing to periodontitis.
Pregnancy: Heightened Risk of Gum Disease
During pregnancy you may be at the highest risk of hormone-related gum disease. The dramatic and sustained rise in hormones during pregnancy can often lead to pregnancy gingivitis. As much as 70% of women experience some form of gum inflammation during pregnancy, making them more vulnerable to developing more advanced stage gum disease. Women may develop pyogenic granuloma, a red bump on the skin that is benign but uncomfortable and prone to bleeding. As with the other stages of life that are characterized by hormone surges, it is crucial to take excellent care of your teeth during this time.
Menopause: Estrogen Loss and Oral Health Challenges
The final period of significant hormone fluctuations you may experience in life is menopause. During menopause most women experience a drop in estrogen that affects many aspects of your oral health, including:
- Reduced Bone Density. After menopause many women experience bone loss throughout their body, including potentially the jaw bone that supports your teeth.
- Burning Mouth Syndrome. Hormonal changes can cause BMS, a burning sensation in your lips, tongue, and soft tissues of your mouth. Burning mouth syndrome causes inflammation that can increase the risk of gum disease.
- Dry Mouth. The decline in production of estrogen and progesterone can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Lack of adequate saliva allows bacteria levels to rise, making gum disease more likely.
Specialized Periodontal Treatments for Women
During these periods of hormone fluctuation it can be beneficial to see a periodontist for specialized care. Periodontal treatments include:
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). Gum disease is caused by plaque bacteria that finds its way under the gums. Scaling is the process of removing plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) from the roots of the teeth under the gumline. Root planing is the process of smoothing the root surface to encourage gum reattachment. This deep cleaning process can treat gum disease and prevent it from returning in some cases.
- Gum grafting. As gum disease progresses it can cause receding gums, meaning the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. This leaves the roots exposed, leading to sensitivity and a higher risk of decay. Gum grafting procedures are designed to replace lost gum tissue to reduce these issues.
- Bone regeneration. Bone grafting can encourage regeneration of lost bone tissue and soft tissue support due to hormonal changes causing gum disease.
Taking Proactive Control of Your Gum Health
It is perfectly natural to have hormone fluctuations that affect your gum health. But a combination of careful oral hygiene habits and professional treatment can prevent these fluctuations from causing irreparable damage. Seek care from a qualified periodontist, like Dr. Gordon at Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, if you experience any symptoms related to gum disease. We can provide the necessary care to restore your gum health and prevent discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Health
Is it normal for my gums to bleed during my period or while pregnant?
While common, it is not normal for healthy gums to bleed. The hormonal surge makes gums more sensitive to plaque, but bleeding is a sign of inflammation (gingivitis). It indicates that professional cleaning and improved hygiene are necessary to prevent the condition from progressing to periodontitis.
Can hormonal gum issues cause tooth loss?
Yes. While hormonal changes directly cause inflammation, it is the resulting, long-term infection (periodontitis) that destroys the bone supporting the teeth. During menopause, reduced estrogen levels compound this risk. Prompt treatment from a periodontist like Dr. Gordon is essential to halt bone loss and save your teeth.
Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, led by the experienced Dr. Marc Gordon, DMD PC, specializes in diagnosing and treating all forms of gum disease and implant needs for patients in the Eatontown and Howell, NJ areas. We focus on providing personalized, effective care to preserve your dental health and ensure a beautiful, lasting smile. If you are concerned about how hormonal changes are impacting your gums, please contact us to schedule an appointment.