The female hormones estrogen and progesterone can affect various aspects of your health, from your weight to your sex drive to your teeth. The best dentists in Montreal provide some info about how hormones can affect your oral health.
Puberty
The hormones that start surging during puberty can make teenagers more prone to canker sores and leave their gums red, swollen and bleeding. Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing once a day can help reduce bleeding, inflammation and discomfort and help your teen avoid cavities and gum disease. These symptoms can also occur during your period throughout your life. Seeing the best Montreal dentist for regular checkups and cleanings can help keep your mouth healthy.
Birth Control Pills
Gum inflammation was a side effect for women taking birth control in the past, but today the levels of estrogen and progesterone in most birth control medications are too low to cause gum issues. However, it’s still important to let your Montreal dentist know if you are taking hormonal birth control. If you need to take an antibiotic, it can make your birth control less effective. Pregnancy
Pregnancy
Visiting your dentist during pregnancy is vital. Due to the flood of hormones during pregnancy, some women develop gingivitis, which is a mild form of gum disease that can make your gums sore, red and tender. Your dentist may recommend more frequent dental cleanings to stay on top of your oral health. As always, make sure to keep up with your oral hygiene routine.
Menopause
Some women experience an altered sense of taste, burning sensations and increased sensitivity in their mouth and teeth. As you age, you may also become more susceptible to dry mouth and receding gums, which can put you at risk for cavities and gum disease. Avoiding tobacco, alcohol and caffeine and drinking plenty of water can help prevent dry mouth. To help reduce the risk of bone loss, make sure you get plenty of calcium and vitamin D. Ask your dentist in Montreal about the best ways to combat dry mouth.
