Menopause and Oral Health: What Every Woman Should Know

Did you know that menopause can affect your teeth? While most of the changes associated with menopause—such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances—are well-known, many people aren’t aware of how menopause can affect their oral health. With all of the changes associated with this stage of life, it’s easy for oral health and maintenance to be overshadowed.

Menopause and the hormonal shifts during this stage of life don't just impact the rest of your body; they can have a noticeable impact on your teeth, gums, and overall oral wellness. Let us walk you through the negative effects menopause might have on your oral health and teach you how to combat it!

How Hormonal Changes Affect Your Oral Health

Your teeth and gums are extremely susceptible to any hormonal changes but menopause, in particular, decreases the body’s ability to fight off minor infections and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria within the oral environment. The hormonal fluctuations that occur during menopause, specifically a drop in estrogen levels, have far-reaching effects on many parts of the body, including the mouth. Estrogen plays a key role in maintaining the health of your bones, teeth, and gums, so its decline can lead to a variety of oral health issues.

1. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

One of the most common complaints among menopausal women is dry mouth, a condition called xerostomia. This occurs when your salivary glands don't produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist. Saliva is crucial for washing away food particles and bacteria, helping to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. The Cleveland Clinic’s article on hormones and oral health highlights how “saliva helps to moisten and cleanse the mouth by neutralizing acids produced by plaque. So, less saliva can lead to bad breath and plaque buildup.” This means that a consistently dry mouth not only feels uncomfortable but also increases your risk of developing cavities and infections.

If you're experiencing dry mouth, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You may also want to try Xylitol gum to stimulate saliva production. Click here for a link to our favorite brand! Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can dry out the mouth even further, is also helpful.

2. Gum Sensitivity & Gum Disease

During menopause, the drop in estrogen can cause your gums to become more sensitive, red, or swollen. This condition is sometimes called “menopausal gingivostomatitis,” and it can make everyday activities like eating and brushing your teeth uncomfortable. If left untreated, these symptoms can lead to more serious gum disease (periodontitis), a condition where bacteria builds up under the gum line, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss.

This is where flossing really comes into play. Daily flossing stimulates the gums and cleans the gum line, removing problematic bacteria and debris. The Slate Electric Flosser was designed specifically to massage the gums while flossing so that your gums are being taken care of alongside your teeth. Between its gum sweeps and sonic vibrations, the Slate Flosser ensures you’re protecting your teeth and gums with each use. If you’re struggling to build that flossing habit, try adding the Slate Floser into your routine. Maintaining healthy teeth with age is all about good habits, so let us help you build yours.

Aside from flossing, routine dental check-ups become even more important during menopause to monitor any changes in your gums. Regular brushing and flossing, along with professional cleanings, can help prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy while your body navigates significant change. 

3. Bone Loss and Tooth Loss

As estrogen levels drop, bone density can decrease, making menopausal women more susceptible to osteoporosis. This not only affects the bones in your body but can also impact the bones that support your teeth. As the jawbone weakens, it can lead to tooth mobility, gum recession, gum disease, and eventually, tooth loss.

If you’re experiencing gum recession, your teeth are more exposed to potential decay, meaning consistent brushing and flossing are all the more important! Unfortunately, studies have shown that postmenopausal women are at a higher risk of tooth loss compared to their premenopausal counterparts. If this is a concern of yours, talk to your healthcare provider about getting enough calcium and vitamin D, and discuss any medications that might help preserve your bone density. 

4. Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is another potential oral health issue that some women experience during menopause. It’s characterized by a burning, tingling, or scalding sensation in the mouth, lips, or tongue, despite there being no visible signs of irritation. While the exact cause is unclear, it’s thought that hormonal changes, particularly estrogen deficiency, might play a role in triggering this condition.

BMS can be uncomfortable, but your dentist or doctor may recommend solutions such as specific oral rinses, pain-relieving medications, or lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms.

Simple Tips to Protect Your Oral Health During Menopause

The good news is that by being proactive about your oral care, you can help prevent or manage many of these menopause-related issues. Here are some simple yet effective tips to maintain a healthy mouth during menopause:

• Brush Regularly: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day can go a long way in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Be gentle with your gums, especially if they’re sensitive, and consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush. 

• Switch to Slate: Consider switching to a Slate Electric Flosser. Traditional string floss and floss picks are good at removing food and debris but due to poor technique, most people aren’t reaping all of the benefits of flossing. Your gums need the stimulation AND cleaning flossing provides. Slate is designed to help you achieve a high-quality clean regardless of technique.

• Stay Hydrated: Since dry mouth is common during menopause, drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier at night can help keep your mouth moist. You can also try mouth taping as means to maintain a healthy oral environment. Looking for recommendations? Click here for our favorite mouth tape!

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and catch any problems early. If you’re experiencing any discomfort, don't hesitate to bring it up during your appointment.

• Pay Attention to Your Diet: Eating a balanced diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and vitamin D, can help strengthen your bones and teeth. Avoid sugary or acidic foods that can contribute to tooth decay.

• Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your oral health. Smoking can worsen many menopause-related oral issues, including dry mouth and gum disease.

• Consider Hormone Therapy: Some women find that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) helps alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause, including those affecting oral health. However, HRT isn’t right for everyone, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Menopause may bring new challenges to your oral health, but with the right care, you can maintain a healthy smile. Staying informed and working closely with your dentist and healthcare provider will ensure that you navigate these changes with confidence. After all, menopause is just another phase of life—and your smile is worth protecting every step of the way!