It is well documented that fluctuations in the female hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are linked to changes in oral health including dry mouth, gum disease, cavities, and missing teeth. During perimenopause and menopause, hormones also have huge impacts on emotional health and therefore well being should be considered as an indicator for oral health.
Mood swings and emotional health imbalances including depression and anxiety can impact salivary flow and also impact taste and the enjoyment of food. Patient enthusiasm about oral hygiene may decrease as a result of poor well being. Dental providers should be mindful of perimenopausal patients who present with oral health conditions like dry mouth and its manifestations of plaque buildup, gingivitis, and gum line cavities. Consideration of depression medications and other medical history findings should also prompt discussion of oral health side effects and good home care regimens to decrease risk of dental disease.
Oral health and emotional well being are large concerns for women going through menopause. Studies have shown that women with a history of periodontitis may experience concomitant emotional problems or women with depressive mood may be more susceptible to periodontitis. Thus, it is imperative that dental providers provide education and advocacy for these patients to practice good oral hygiene and maintain frequent dental visits in order to reach their smile goals.
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