A reader sent this question:
I would like to know if perimenopause affects your teeth. Mine are just falling apart on me suddenly.
My research yielded a few answers. First, the mere fact of aging puts wear and tear on your teeth, so it's debatable whether perimenopause or the fact that you're older is affecting your teeth. Chances are it's a combination of both.
Having passed through perimenopause myself, I can attest to this: It's a time when we might be feeling a wee bit more stress than usual (the reasons are myriad; one that comes to mind is the fact that your sleep can often be disrupted by hot flashes, which makes for a very unhappy, stressed-out person). And stress can lead to teeth-grinding (or bruxism, in medical terms), which in turn leads to more compromised teeth—prone to fracturing, loosening or even loss. What's next? Visits to the dentist for things like root canals, bridges, crowns or dental implants.
Then there are the other oral conditions that are sometimes related to menopause, like decreased saliva flow (leading to more decay, since saliva helps wash away harmful bacteria); gums that look dry or shiny, bleed easily and appear anywhere from abnormally pale to deep red; changes in taste perception especially in salty, peppery or sour. Another thing about menopause:bone losst hat accompanies menopause (and aging, too) could be associated with periodontal disease.
For information on oral health,click here
Everything you need to know about women’s health — in one place.
Positivity Was My Secret Weapon Against PCOS and Infertility
When my biological clock started ticking, I had no idea how many challenges I would face
April, 25 2024
Real Women, Real Stories5 Health Trends on TikTok: Heart or Hype?
Somatic exercises, snail mucin and the sleepy girl mocktail. Here’s what you should know and what's worth the hype.
April, 22 2024
Your WellnessiStock.com/georgeclerk
The Mental and Physical Load of Racial Trauma
The pain of racial bias can have lifelong effects on women’s physical, mental and emotional health
April, 10 2024
Your CareiStock.com/LUMEZIA
The Influence of Social Media on Contraception
Online opinions can sway the way we view birth control. Here’s why talking to your healthcare provider is more important than ever.
April, 10 2024
Sexual HealthiStock.com/Charday Penn
Biosimilars Basics
Biosimilars work the same as biologics, but cost a lot less. Here are some basic facts about these drugs.
April, 10 2024
Medication Safety