Women & Periodontal Health: What to Know for this Women’s day

Dr. Shimona Raj

Woman’s periodontal health care: All you need to know

Women and their periodontal health are one of the major concerns at this time. Periodontal disease stems primarily from infections and inflammation of the gums and bones. Hormones play a significant role in the predilection for periodontal disease, among other systemic conditions. Continue reading to discover the various ways this condition can impact women – and strategies to safeguard your oral health!

As per a study conducted in 2017, men exhibit a higher prevalence of periodontal disease compared to women, with rates at approximately 57% versus 39%. Despite this, advancedperioatl.com notes that women experience hormonal fluctuations more frequently over the course of their lives. According to data from the CDC, 47.2% of adults aged 30 and above manifest some level of periodontal disease, while the prevalence rises to 70.1% among adults aged 65 and older.

Periodontal health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked. For women, understanding the relationship between oral health and hormonal changes is particularly crucial. With the help of compelling statistics and useful insights, we’ll explore the significance of periodontal health for women in this article.

The Impact of Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life can significantly affect periodontal health. During puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, hormonal changes can exacerbate gum inflammation and increase the risk of gum disease.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, hormonal fluctuations during puberty can make gums more sensitive and prone to gingivitis, affecting approximately 70% of teenagers.
During pregnancy, hormonal shifts can lead to pregnancy gingivitis, affecting up to 70–80% of pregnant women, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that menopausal women are at higher risk of developing periodontal disease, with 56% of women aged 55–64 experiencing gum disease.

The Link Between Periodontal Health and Overall Health

Maintaining good periodontal health is not only essential for oral hygiene but also for overall health and well-being.

Research published in the Journal of Periodontology suggests that individuals with periodontal disease are at a higher risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women with gum disease may be more likely to give birth prematurely or have low birth weight babies.

Preventive Measures and Treatment Options

Thankfully, there are several preventive measures and treatment options available to promote periodontal health in women.

It is recommended to practice good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
During pregnancy, maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial. Pregnant women should inform their dentist about their pregnancy and seek professional dental care if they experience gum inflammation or bleeding.
Hormonal therapy or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered for menopausal women to help alleviate symptoms of gum disease and maintain oral health.

Empowering Women Through Education

Empowering women with knowledge about periodontal health is key to promoting overall well-being. By understanding the impact of hormonal changes and the importance of preventive measures, women can take proactive steps to maintain healthy gums and teeth throughout their lives.

According to a survey, only 26% of women believe that oral health is related to overall health. Increasing awareness through education campaigns and targeted outreach can help bridge this gap.

An intriguing statistic emerges from our clinic, ToothTamers: seven out of ten patients seeking assistance for gingival issues each week are women. This observation underscores the importance of understanding the unique factors that contribute to periodontal health in women.

Women‘s lives always have hormonal changes that have an impact on their periodontal health, emphasising the importance of proactive oral hygiene and regular dental care. By understanding the link between hormonal fluctuations and gum disease, women can take control of their oral health and promote overall well-being. Through education, prevention, and timely treatment, we can ensure that women everywhere enjoy healthy smiles for years to come.