How Does Menopause Affect Your Teeth?

There are a lot of common conditions that can arise with menopause, from sleep issues and hot flashes to mood swings and weight gain. However, many women are not aware of the impact that menopause has on their oral health. 

Here at Sunrise Dental in Peoria, we hear concerns from many of our female patients in their 40s and 50s about menopause and teeth issues. Let’s take a closer look at how menopause can affect your teeth. 

Menopause and Teeth Sensitivity

During menopause, the hormones estrogen and progesterone decrease, which impacts bone health and leads to an increased risk for osteoporosis. What women may not realize is that bone health is also essential to oral health. Bone loss in the jaw can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, tooth pain, loose or shifting teeth, and even tooth loss. 

Bone loss in the jaw also puts women at risk for gum disease—another way that sensitive teeth and menopause go hand-in-hand. As the bone density in the mouth decreases, the gums recede and cannot protect the teeth as well as they used to do. This can lead to gingivitis and ultimately periodontal disease unless it’s treated promptly.  

It’s important to note perimenopause can also impact oral health. We see many female patients complaining of sensitive teeth during perimenopause because their hormone levels have already started decreasing. 

Menopause and Dry Mouth

In addition to bone loss, lowered hormones during menopause can also lead to dry mouth. Dry mouth can cause acid build-up in the mouth that attacks and damages the tooth enamel. The mouth needs saliva to neutralize acid attacks and wash away the germs, bacteria, and food particles that cling to teeth and gums.  

Known clinically as xerostomia, dry mouth can cause a host of problems for your teeth and gums, including: 

• A lack of saliva causes bad breath
• Difficulty eating and drinking 
• Change in taste to food and drink
• Cavities
• Enamel wear
• An uncomfortable burning sensation in the mouth, tongue, and lips 

How Can Menopausal Women Protect Their Teeth?

If you’re experiencing menopause and teeth pain, sensitivity or shifting, there are a few things you can do to help: 

1. Keep up with your at-home oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day.
2. Continue to eat a well-balanced, healthy diet. Limit problematic substances like sugars, starchy foods, and alcohol.
3. Maintain regular exercise as much as possible.  
4. Talk to your gynecologist or family physician about any medical prescriptions you’re taking that can make dry mouth worse. 
5. Visit your dentist regularly twice a year and talk to them about any treatments that may help with menopause teeth pain or dry mouth. 

Menopause And Teeth Issues

If you’re experiencing menopause and toothache or perimenopause-sensitive teeth, it’s vital to stay up-to-date on your regular dental cleanings. Our knowledgeable staff can advise you on the products and treatments available to help ease your menopause teeth pain. Make your appointment today with Sunrise Dental in Peoria by calling 623-487-4870 or visiting sunrisedentalarizona.com.