Keep Your Mouth Healthy During Menopause - Visit Your Dentist In Fort Lauderdale

While menopause is a completely natural experience for women, it can have major impacts on women's lives.  Hot flashes and night sweats are well known symptoms of menopause caused by hormonal changes; however, these same hormonal changes can also affect your oral health. Prioritize your oral health with regular visits to your dentist at Excellence in Dentistry in Fort Lauderdale. Dr. Nancy Rotroff and Dr. Gerard Wasselle want to partner with you for your best oral health in all life stages. Call 954-928-1666 to schedule your appointment for a dental checkup today.

How Does Menopause Affect My Oral Health?

While everyone experiences oral health changes as we age, there is a strong correlation between menopause and oral health complications including:

• Dry Mouth ( xerostomia).  Decreased estrogen and progesteron levels can cause salivary glands to reduce saliva production.  Dry mouth can create an environment at higher risk of dental decay and gum disease. 
• Gum Disease.  Gum tissue is susceptible to changes in levels of progesterone and estrogen becoming swollen, irritated or even bleeding.
• Receding Gums. When gum tissue begins to recede away from teeth, pockets form which can accumulate bacteria and lead to cavities and periodontal disease.
• Tooth Decay. Saliva is a natural cleanser for your teeth and gums.  When hormonal changes cause dry mouth, the likelihood of developing tooth decay increases. 
• Reduced Jaw Bone Density. Estrogen is involved in maintaining bone density including the bone of the jaw. Reduced jaw bone density can lead to teeth becoming loose as well as tooth loss.
• Tooth Loss.  Decreased jaw bone density as well as gum disease can lead to tooth loss.
• Bruxism (teeth grinding). The increased stress and insomnia common to menopause can cause women to develop bruxism which can lead to excessive enamel wear or broken teeth.

How Can I Keep My Teeth Healthy During Menopause?

Understanding how menopause can impact oral health can help women take proactive steps to maintain a healthy smile during this time. Your dentist at Excellence in Dentistry can help you manage any oral health issues that may arise from menopause.  With regular dental checkups, your dentist can monitor for any signs of gum disease or dental decay and address any issues quickly and suggest treatment early before they worsen.  If you are experiencing oral health changes during menopause, communicate those changes to your dentist during your dental checkup.  Dr. Rotroff and Dr. Wasselle are dedicated to developing personalized solutions to address your specific dental needs to help keep your mouth healthy through all phases of life.

Dr. Rotroff, Dr. Wasselle and the team at Excellence in Dentistry are here to help you  maintain a healthy smile throughout your menopausal journey. Call 954-928-1666 to schedule an appointment today. Our office is conveniently located on E. Commercial Boulevard.  We accept PPO dental insurances.