Highlighting Women’s Oral Health

When it comes to comparing the differences between women and men, the subject of oral health doesn’t usually rank very high. Actually both women and men face different sets of challenges when it comes to the maintenance of healthy gums and teeth. Women are more at risk for certain issue while still having a few advantages over men.

How Teeth are Affected by Hormonal Changes

Did you know that Oral Health can be affected by women’s hormonal changes experienced during menopause, pregnancy, and puberty? Keeping oral hygiene under control are essential to the conditions of gum inflammation and gingivitis, that might occur during puberty and pregnancy. Preventive measures include daily flossing and brushing (twice) with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.

Did you know that women who are experiencing menopause are more likely to have issues with bone loss and dry mouths? Bone loss which occurs in the jaw is capable of compromising the roots of teeth and the gums. Discussions of these things with your dentist is highly recommended prior to symptoms appearing.

How do Eating Disorders Affect Your Oral Health?

Eating disorders are very common these days especially among young teenage girls. Though did you know that eating disorders are twice as common to girls versus their male counterparts? The biggest issue lies within the devastation to the systems of the body, which also include oral health.Oral health issues and problems can escalate when the gums and teeth begin to lack the raw materials needed to maintain themselves. This is caused by mineral and vitamin deficiencies that occur due to malnutrition. Bulimia affects oral health due to acid erosion, another eating disorder.As expected, if you know someone that suffers from an eating disorder you should recommend them seeking psychiatric help to begin their mental recovery process. However, the recovery of dental health resides with your local dental professional who can advise on a recommended hygiene routine.

Women: Common Oral Health Issues

Sjögren’s syndrome and temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ) are among the 2 oral health conditions that women are more prone to than men. Called an autoimmune disorder, Sjögren’s syndrome is described as when the immune system attacks one’s tear ducts and salivary glands (leading to dry eyes & mouth) in addition to other problems with organs and tissues. A dry mouth can make it difficult for chewing and swallowing, let alone it is a danger oral health. Saliva serves an important function to oral health such as fighting off oral bacteria, washing food particles away, and providing a neutralizer for the pH located in our mouths.TMJ is typical of sore jaw joints combined with chronic pains in the mouth. TMJ is also common to bruxism (associated with teeth grinding). Though TMJ may also be caused by stress, a deficiency in vitamin intake, hormones, and arthritis. Did you know that women make up 90% of TMJ diagnoses?

Oral Health – Trusting in Your Dentist!

This is a lot of information to take in (especially with this article focusing on women) and would seem that women are worse off. Studies have shown that women are actually better at teeth care than men. This is due to a higher percentage of good oral health habits that include the regular scheduling of dental appointments. Funny enough, men have a frequency for “toughing out” tooth pains, while women are quicker to seek dental aid. This alludes to a reduction of effects occurring from dental problems.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions