Hormonal Changes Can Contribute to Poor Gum Health By Dr. Silvers on August 01, 2017

A woman at a dental examThere are many different causes of periodontal disease and gum recession. Sometimes health issues or even unavoidable changes in our bodies can lead to a greater risk to gum health. The team at our Harrisburg restorative dentistry center stress this to all of our patients so they know what risks they may face with regard to periodontal wellness. This is why we want to consider changes in hormones in this post.

While hormone imbalances may be related to glandular disorders or certain health conditions, there are a number of common hormonal changes and imbalances that affect people throughout their life. Below are some cases in which a change in hormones increased the risk of periodontal health problems.

How Hormones Affect Your Gums

Hormones are an essential part of your body's normal processes. They help with fertility, ensure proper function of organs, regular moods and appetite, and so forth. Yet when hormones become imbalanced, it can have a negative impact on your wellness, which includes affecting your gums and overall periodontal health. Different hormone imbalances can result in an increase of blood flow to the gums. This can, in turn, lead to an increased risk of gum disease.

Hormone Changes During Puberty

During puberty, people often experience surges in both estrogen and progesterone. This can often lead to swollen gums as well as sensitivity of the gums. There's a greater susceptibility to the bacteria in the mouth, and there's also a heightened risk of irritation when a person brushes or flosses their teeth.

Hormone Changes from a Woman's Monthly Cycle

When a woman goes through her monthly cycle, progesterone levels are heightened. This causes the same sorts of issues previously noted, with greater risk of gum disease, gum irritation, and so forth. Menstruation is also associated with possible formation of canker sores and swelling of the salivary glands, the latter of which may impact saliva production and contribute to dry mouth.

Hormone Changes from Birth Control

When taking birth control pills, level of progesterone in a woman's body are increased. This means a higher risk of periodontal disease as well as swollen gums, gum irritation, and so forth.

Hormone Changes from Pregnancy

Pregnancy will bring about many changes that impact a woman's overall health and wellness. In addition to changes in food cravings, appetite, body mass, and energy level, the third trimester of pregnancy tends to bring about a boost in progesterone levels.

Hormone Changes from Menopause

During menopause, women experience major changes in the level of progesterone and estrogen in their body. As a result, there's a higher risk of periodontal disease. These risks are compounded by a great risk of dry mouth, which means issues with tooth decay in addition to periodontal disease.

Tips for Fighting Gum Disease

To prevent gum disease and other issues that affect periodontal health, consider the following tips:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day (ideally after every meal)
  • Floss your teeth at leas once a night (ideally after every meal)
  • Avoid using tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco
  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and avoid junk food
  • Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water
  • Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings

Contact Silvers Family Dental Care

If you would like more information about improving your dental health and overall wellness, be sure to contact Silvers Family Dental Care today. The team at our practice will help you have a smile that's healthy as well as beautiful.

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Silvers Family Dental Care Office

Silvers Family Dental Care

Silvers Family Dental Care is a comprehensive dentistry practice serving Harrisburg and the surrounding communities. Founded in 1968 by Dr. Warren D. Silvers, we continue to be a family-run business committed to high-quality dental treatment. Our affiliations include:
  • American Dental Association
  • Pennsylvania Dental Association
  • American Dental Society of Anesthesiology
  • Academy of General Dentistry

Request a consultation online, or call (717) 564-1681.

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