Most women realize they have unique health issues that men don’t experience. However, what they may not realize is that these unique issues aren’t limited to medical health alone. They include dental concerns.

Every mouth includes dental components such as enamel, pulp, nerves, dentin, and the jawbone. As your Century City cosmetic dentist will tell you, how these components effect women’s dental health is unique to their biology.

Female Hormones Effect Dental Health

Throughout their life, women experience various hormonal changes. From puberty and menstruation to pregnancy and menopause, these changes may have an effect on their dental health. Specifically:

• Puberty. During puberty, gingivitis and the accompanying inflammation may occur in young people. It is most notable in females due to changes in levels of estrogen and progesterone.
• Menstruation. Just prior to the start of their periods, some women experience swollen, bleeding gums or mouth sores. These symptoms generally dissipate once menstruation begins.
• Oral contraceptives. Mouth sores and inflammation or discoloration of the soft tissue of your mouth may occur when taking birth control pills. Make sure to notify your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist if you’re taking oral contraceptives.
• Pregnancy. Experts indicate that pregnancy hormones may make teeth more susceptible to plaque attacks. That includes red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Additionally, pregnant women with gum disease increase their chances of having a preemie.
• Menopause. Dental issues may include inflamed gums, burning sensations, dry mouth, and altered taste.
• Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become less dense and fracture easier. Dental experts have linked osteoporosis to jawbone loss, which may lead to tooth loss.

Regardless of whether you are in your twenties or your sixties, speak with your gynecologist about your medical health and your Century City cosmetic dentist about your dental health.

Other Dental Conditions Women May Encounter

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, approximately 10 million Americans suffer from Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome, commonly referred to as TMJ.
TMJ causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles and can lead to headaches, jaw popping and locking, and teeth grinding. Experts suggest that as much as 90 percent of TMJ sufferers are women and females aged 18 to 44 have an increased risk of having TMJ.

Another dental concern for women is saliva production. Women typically produce less saliva than men do and during pregnancy, it loses some of its antimicrobial ability. Saliva is important in keeping your mouth comfortable, especially if you wear dentures. In addition, it helps in chewing and swallowing, fighting oral germs, and protecting your teeth from decay.

Whatever dental concerns you have, be sure to speak with your Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist. It’s important to keep him aware of any health conditions. That way you can keep your smile looking great for years to come.