How menopause affects oral health, and what we can do about it

Abstract

After menopause, women become more susceptible to periodontal disease. We believe the problem is due in large part to estrogen deficiency with resulting bone loss and inflammatory processes. Osteoporosis and periodontal disease are best diagnosed early so that treatment can be started sooner and fractures and tooth loss can be prevented.

Menopause and the oral cavity: an oral hygiene update in Indonesia

“…If a complaint is reduced, do not forget to evaluate the possibility of side effects as a consequence of the pharmacological effects of the drug. [34][35][36] The appropriate algorithm for using hormone replacement therapy can be found in figure 4.…”

Interdisciplinary Approach in Management of Edentulousness in Menopausal Women-A Narrative Review

“…Dentist should be aware of potential effects of menopause and its treatments on bone and dental health [45] and should refer their patients to gynaecologist for needful regarding their systemic health.…”

The Effects of Menopause on Periodontal Tissue

“…Gingivitis can often be controlled by removing the hard and soft deposits from the tooth surface (1). If unchecked, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, an inflammation of the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the gingiva, alveolar bone, and periodontal ligament (2). Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory process that occurs in response to a predominantly Gram-negative bacterial infection originating in dental plaque.…”

“…Periodontitis leads to progressive and irreversible loss of bone and periodontal ligament attachment, as inflammation extends from the gingiva into adjacent bone and ligament. Signs and symptoms of progressing periodontitis include red, swollen gums that may appear to have pulled away from the teeth, persistent bad breath, pus between the teeth and gums, and loose or separating teeth (2).…”

“…Epidemiologic studies have identified a number of risk factors and risk indicators for periodontal attachment loss (PAL), including demographic, IDR -Volume 1, Number 3, 2011 socioeconomic, behavioural, genetic, and systemic factors (1,2).…”