International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is a day to raise awareness of the challenges women face and calls for action to achieve gender equality. In this blog, we will focus on the importance of oral health for women and the unique challenges women face in maintaining good oral health.
Believe it or not, women and men have different oral health needs. In fact, women’s oral health needs change at different stages throughout their lives, including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Kiddie Dental Care offers a reminder that understanding these evolving oral health needs will ensure that everyone, regardless of gender or life stage, receives the oral health care they need to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Oral Health During Puberty:
During puberty, increased hormone levels can cause swollen and sensitive gums, as well as mouth sores. Long-term use of oral contraceptives can cause gingivitis, as they contain progesterone or estrogen. Additionally, women who take oral contraceptives are twice as likely to develop dry sockets.
Oral Health During Pregnancy:
Maintaining good oral health is especially important during pregnancy. Due to increased hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, pregnant women are at increased risk of developing gingivitis, which can lead to gum disease if left untreated. Pregnant women diagnosed with periodontal (gum) disease are more likely to have premature, low-birth-weight babies. To prevent periodontal disease, brush thoroughly twice a day and floss daily. Eating during pregnancy affects the development of her unborn child. To reduce the risk of tooth decay, choose nutritiously balanced meals and snacks.
Oral Health During Menopause:
During menopause, it is not uncommon for women to develop a dry mouth and throat, and sensitive gums. Dentists may recommend several products to soothe your gums and stimulate saliva flow,” Dr. Ketaki said.
Kiddie Dental Care encourages women at every stage of life to talk to their dentist and understand their changing oral health care needs. Your dentist can answer any questions and suggest helpful tips to ensure excellent dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
During puberty, increased levels of hormones can cause swelling in the mouth and sensitive gums and sores. During menopause, women often develop dry mouths and throats, and sensitive gums. Ask your dentist for product recommendations to soothe your gums and stimulate saliva flow.
Yes, long-term use of oral contraceptives can cause gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal disease, where bacteria enter the teeth and gums and cause inflammation. Tell your dentist if you are taking oral contraceptives or any other medications.
Brushing twice a day and flossing daily, as well as visiting the dentist for regular checkups and professional cleanings will help prevent periodontal disease.
