Women’s Oral Health – Take Charge.

Good dental hygiene is important for oral health. It is especially important for women because hormonal changes throughout a woman’s life can increase her risk of tooth and gum diseases.

During puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause, fluctuating levels of female hormones can cause swelling and changes to the gums. Hormone medications such as the oral contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), as well as other prescription and non-prescription medications, can also play a role in the health of a woman’s mouth.

Other important information you should know:

• Oral contraceptives — inflamed gums are one of the most common side effects.
• Pregnancy — studies show many pregnant women experience pregnancy gingivitis, when dental plaque builds up on the teeth and irritates the gums. Symptoms include red, inflamed and bleeding gums. Prenatal care is especially important.
• Menopause — oral symptoms experienced during this stage of a women’s life include red or inflamed gums, oral pain and discomfort, burning sensations, altered taste sensations and dry mouth.
• Osteoporosis — a number of studies have suggested a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw. Researchers suggest this may lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone that supports teeth may be decreased. When combined with gum disease, osteoporosis speeds up the process of bone loss around the teeth.
• Menstruation — some women find that their gums swell and bleed prior to their periods, while others experience cold sores or canker sores. These symptoms usually go away once your period start.

Good news is that research shows that women visit their dentists more regularly than men. And while there, they make follow up appointments they intend to keep. More check ups and more cleanings gives us a much needed advantage with all the changes women experience orally. It’s also been shown that women brush more than men. On average, women are over 8% more likely to brush their teeth twice every day than men are. Studies have shown that men skip brushing here and there while women prove to be more vigilant about their brushing habits. Women are also nearly 10% more likely than men to brush their teeth immediately after eating meals.

Being proactive and attentive with the condition of your teeth and gums will assure you less concern and issues through all stages and growth of your life. Women are born with keen instinct, and have a sensitivity to what their bodies need. This includes your mouth also. If you feel something is not right or abnormal, it is in your best interest to book in for a check up.

Being a husband and a father to three children, two of them girls, Dr. Charchuk is dedicated to helping women, young women, teens and little girls keep their smile bright and most importantly, healthy. Our team at Chinook Mall Family Dental Clinic wants to see you through getting your first teeth, losing your first teeth, teaching you healthy habits as you grow into a young women, first dates to graduation and throughout all the important stages of your life.

We look forward to being a part of your health care team!