ORAL HEALTH IN MENOPAUSE: CHANGES AND SPECIAL CARE

Menopause is a time of great changes in a woman’s body, and oral health is no exception. The hormonal variations that occur during this phase can affect the structure of the teeth and gums, increasing the risk of certain conditions. Being aware of these changes and adopting preventive measures is essential to maintain a healthy smile during this stage of life.

Oral health changes during menopause

During menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, which can cause various alterations in the oral cavity:

• Xerostomia (dry mouth): Reduced saliva production can cause a dry mouth sensation, make chewing and speaking difficult, and increase the risk of caries and periodontal disease.
• Increased susceptibility to periodontal disease: The decrease in estrogen can affect bone density and gum health, favoring the appearance of gingivitis and periodontitis.
• Loss of bone density: Osteoporosis and bone resorption can affect the stability of teeth and increase the risk of tooth loss.
• Taste alterations: Some women experience changes in taste perception, especially with salty, spicy or bitter foods.
• Tooth sensitivity: Thinning of the enamel can make teeth more sensitive to temperature changes.
• Increased predisposition to oral infections: Oral candidiasis and other infections may become more frequent due to changes in the oral microbiota.

Special care for oral health in menopause

Adopting a proper oral hygiene routine and regular visits to the dentist are key to preventing problems at this stage. Some recommendations include:

1. Maintain rigorous oral hygiene.

• Brush teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Use dental floss or interproximal brushes daily to remove plaque in hard-to-reach areas.
• Complement hygiene with alcohol-free mouthwashes to prevent dry mouth.

2. Combat dry mouth

• Drink water frequently to keep the mouth hydrated.
• Chew sugarless gum or consume sugarless candies to stimulate saliva production.
• Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco, as they may worsen xerostomia.
• In severe cases, the dentist may recommend salivary substitutes or specific treatments.

3. Protect gums and jawbones

• Follow a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to strengthen bones and prevent bone loss.
• Consume crunchy fruits and vegetables to promote salivation and gum health.
• Avoid excessive consumption of sugars and refined carbohydrates, which can promote tooth decay and gum disease.

4. Control tooth sensitivity

• Use special toothpastes and mouthwashes for sensitive teeth.
• Avoid brushing too hard so as not to wear down the enamel.
• Reduce consumption of acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits and carbonated soft drinks.

5. Perform regular dental check-ups

• See your dentist at least twice a year to detect and treat any problems early.
• Consult about treatments such as tooth whitening or additional fluoride application if enamel wear is detected.
• In cases of diagnosed osteoporosis, inform the dentist about the medications being taken, as some may affect oral health.

Conclusion

Menopause brings with it important changes in oral health, but with good prevention and proper care, it is possible to maintain a healthy and functional smile. In AHOA dental clinic, we have a team specialized in the oral health of women at every stage of their lives. If you have any doubts or need a personalized assessment, do not hesitate to visit us.