FYI

Marking the end of the menstrual cycle, menopause can be one of the most significant transitions in a woman's life. It can bring on various physiological changes that can impact her emotional, physical, and oral health. 

79% of women 50 and over say they have noticed a change in their teeth and gums. As a dentist,  understanding these changes can help you provide the appropriate support and information your patient needs as they go through this transition. 

Here are tips that can help strengthen your approach to offering thoughtful, patient-centered care:

1. Learn more about menopause and oral health.

Understanding the connection between menopause and oral health is essential to giving your patients an informed opinion and prognosis. 

During menopause, hormonal fluctuations, especially a decline in estrogen, can lead to various oral health issues, including:

• Dry mouth: Reduced saliva production can cause discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Gingivitis and periodontitis: Hormonal changes can lead to inflammation of the gums and increase the risk of gum disease.
• Burning mouth syndrome: Some women may experience a burning sensation in their mouth, affecting the tongue, lips, and other areas.
• Changes in taste: Menopause can alter taste perception, leading to a metallic or salty taste.
   

2. Encourage open communication and put your patient’s mind at ease.

Encourage open communication with your patients by creating a welcoming and non-judgmental atmosphere for them to share their feelings and concerns. Many patients may feel embarrassed or hesitant to discuss menopause-related symptoms with their dentist, especially if their dentist is male or if they are having a particularly difficult time coping with their symptoms. 

With compassion and kindness, let your patients know that their concerns are valid, important, and most of all, normal and manageable.

3. Conduct thorough oral examinations.

During regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups, be sure to pay close attention to signs of menopause-related oral health issues. Look for symptoms like dry mouth, gum inflammation, and changes in oral tissue. Early detection can prevent more severe problems.

4. Create a personalized oral hygiene plan for your patient.

Offer personalized advice to help patients manage their oral health during menopause. Consider the following: 

• Increase hydration: Encourage increased water intake to combat dry mouth.
• Stimulate saliva production: Advise that sugar-free gum and sugar-free lozenges can help stimulate saliva production.
• Recommend oral hygiene products: Suggest toothpastes and mouthwashes designed for dry mouth. Recommend soft-bristled toothbrushes to avoid irritating sensitive gums.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups: Emphasize the importance of regular dental visits for monitoring and addressing oral health changes. Be sure to schedule their next appointment before they leave.
   

5. Offer stress management tips.

Menopause can cause stressful symptoms like insomnia, irritability, and anxiety, and can lead to depression. The stress experienced during this transitional time can exacerbate oral health issues like gum disease and teeth grinding. If you notice signs of stress, provide tips for stress management, such as relaxation techniques, exercise, and mindfulness practices. 

If teeth grinding is an issue, suggest a preventative mouth guard to protect the teeth and gums while your patient navigates how to better handle their stress.

6. Be empathetic and show support.

A little empathy goes a long way toward building trust and rapport with your patients. Acknowledge the challenges they are facing and offer reassurance and support.

7. Stay up-to-date on the latest research and advancements.

Continuously educate yourself about the latest research and advancements in women’s health, menopausal care, and oral health. If you are able, attend seminars, workshops, and conferences to stay informed and provide the best care possible—especially if you find you have many patients of menopausal age. 



We recently completed a survey to help break the stigma around menopause and oral health.  Read our findings.
 

Support makes a difference

Supporting patients going through menopause not only requires a holistic and empathetic approach—it also takes an eagerness to learn and understand what your patients experience. By understanding the unique oral health challenges associated with menopause, dentists can significantly improve their patients' quality of life during this transition.