Women have their fair share of worries. They worry about their kids, their parents, their partners, their jobs, and now they have to worry about their teeth. Hormonal changes throughout a woman’s life put her at risk for oral health issues including gum disease. How much do you know about how hormonal fluctuations affect your dental health? They probably didn’t cover that in health class did they? Don’t women have enough worries?
True or False?
- True or False: The only time a woman needs to be aware of her oral health is after the age of 65.
- True or False: The major reason women need to worry is because they eat too many sweets.
- True or False: Middle-aged women who are at high risk for broken bones are also at higher risk for gum disease.
Answers:
- False: Individuals of the female persuasion should be especially attentive to their oral health throughout their lives and particularly during puberty, while on birth control, during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and post menopause.
- False: It’s true women may crave sweets during the above mentioned times but that is not the reason they need to be more aware of their dental health. The reason is that hormonal levels increase the flow of blood to the gums making the gums more sensitive. However, sugar levels also have something to do with it. Hormone levels can increase glucose amounts in a woman’s saliva, and as you know sugar contributes to decay and gingivitis.
- True: Research studies show that postmenopausal women at high risk for broken bones may also be at an increased risk for gum disease. The study examined the gums of 200 women, ages 51 to 80, and assessed their fracture risk. Women with high fracture risk scores also displayed more gum disease indicators suggesting that fracture risk could be a reliable indicator of gum disease.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced general, restorative, and family dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you and your family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
