Dental hygiene is important for everyone; it prevents issues from forming, allows you to have a great-looking smile and acts as a stable basis should you ever need cosmetic treatments.
While you may think that dentistry is simply linked to how many times you brush your teeth in a day, there are more factors that can impact on your general dental health than how regularly you floss!
It is now recognised that life events, such as pregnancy, can impact on a woman's oral health, but did you know that the general fluctuation of hormones that occurs throughout a woman's life can play a big part in dental hygiene too?
At Kings Dental in Subiaco, our team knows all about the issues that are linked to the natural increase and decrease of certain hormones and can provide you with targeted advice for each stage. Whether you are having your first or sixth child, are starting menopause or are taking an oral contraceptive, our team will aim to keep your dental health in top condition!
But how do these changes in hormones impact on your oral health and what exactly can our team at Kings Dental in Subiaco do to prevent problems? Read on to find out.
Menstruation
The monthly cycle can cause a myriad of dental health issues.
As hormones increase, specifically progesterone, you may find that your gums are more swollen than usual, which can cause them to bleed or look redder. In addition, you may also experience the formation of oral ulcers.
To help with this, our team at Kings Dental in Subiaco will recommend changing to a soft-bristled brush and using an antibacterial mouthwash to combat any swelling.
Oral contraceptives
If you have any underlying plaque in your mouth, you may notice a sudden inflammatory response when you begin taking oral contraceptives.
In simple terms, this is an immune response caused by the increase in estrogen and progesterone. Our dentist will be able to offer you a scale and polish, which removes the inflammation-causing plaque and allows your gums to settle down.
Pregnancy
Hormonal surges, morning sickness and unusual cravings can all lead to a myriad of dental issues. For swollen gums, we can help by performing routine hygienist techniques, such as scales and polishes. If you have acid erosion, we can apply fluoride sealant to protect your teeth. And of course, our team will be able to offer an acid neutralising toothpaste or mouthwash.
Perimenopause
Gum tenderness and enamel softening can often accompany perimenopause, so it is important to visit our team if you have been diagnosed with this condition.
Application of fluoride sealants can protect your teeth against bacteria and we will be able to reduce inflammation with bacteria targeting mouthwash.
Menopause
As the issues you experience during perimenopause may worsen, you may also notice jaw recession and brittle teeth. This is due to a drop in estrogen and can be worsened by osteoporosis. Depending on the severity, our team may suggest extractions and bone grafting treatments.
DISCLAIMER
All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.