Gloria: How women’s dental health changes as we age

Gloria - Most of us are aware (in theory) that a good dental hygiene routine includes regular brushing, consistent flossing, and a biannual checkup. Less commonly known is the fact that women’s oral health needs evolve over the course of our lives. Rising estrogen and progesterone levels during puberty and pregnancy (or just being on birth control!) can set the scene for inflammation-related gum conditions; decreasing levels of those same sex hormones during perimenopause and menopause are linked to a host of issues, from dry mouth to heightened sensitivity. 

The more you know, the easier it is to identify early symptoms and potentially get ahead of problems. But unless you’re a patient at a highly proactive dental practice, chances are this information flies under the radar until you’re in the thick of symptoms yourself. In fact, 2024  survey data from dental insurance company Delta Dental revealed that 84 percent of women ages 50 and up didn’t realize the connections between menopause and oral health. Nor were the vast majority aware that menopause can increase the risk of myriad health conditions like gum disease, jawbone density, tooth loss, and more.

Only three percent of women surveyed said they’d ever discussed menopause-related oral health symptoms with their dentist or hygienist, but even if you do, the conversation might not be helpful. When Sarah Chavarria, Delta Dental’s CEO, brought up menopause at a recent appointment, she felt that the information was treated like a “non-consideration.” The experience made her realize that women (and dentists) could use a nudge to delve more deeply into the topic, together. 

We spoke with Chavarria about the symptoms menopausal women might expect, how to advocate for comprehensive care that relates to your stage of life, and why it’s so vital to treat your dental visit as a preventative checkup. 

Read the full article on HelloGloria.