Women have special needs when it comes to their oral health. That's
because the physical changes they undergo through life-things like
menstruation, pregnancy and childbirth, breast-feeding and menopause-cause
many changes in the body, some harmful to teeth and gums.
Lesions and ulcers, dry sockets, as well as swollen gums, can sometimes
occur during surges in a woman's hormone levels. These periods would be a
prime time to visit the dentist. Birth control pills have been shown to
increase the risk of gingivitis, and hormone replacement therapy has been
shown to cause bleeding and swollen gums. Gum disease can also present a
higher risk for premature births.
Some research has shown that women may be more likely to develop dry mouth,
eating disorders, jaw problems such as temporomandibular joint disorders,
and facial pain-all of which can be difficult from a physical and emotional
standpoint.
Taking care of your oral health is essential, and can go a long way to
helping you face the physical changes in your body over the years. |