Gum health is a key indicator of overall health in women

Gum health is a key indicator of overall health in women

Many women don’t realise the link between hormonal changes and gum health. But at different stages of a woman’s life, such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause, hormonal fluctuations can make gums more vulnerable to disease, making oral care even more important for overall health.

A recent study found that 84% of women over 50 were unaware that menopause can affect their oral health; 70% of menopausal women noted at least one new symptom (such as dry mouth or gum sensitivity), but only 2% discussed these concerns with their dentist.

Similarly, young women may not associate bleeding gums during pregnancy or puberty with changes in hormones – they may simply accept the presence of small amounts of blood as normal. This lack of awareness means that women often don’t get the help they need for their gums.

At all stages, the key is to listen to your body and mouth. ‘If you notice changes such as bleeding gums, chronic bad breath or oral discomfort, take it seriously and consult a specialist. Take it as a sign that you need to improve your oral hygiene,’ say periodontists.

The earlier the treatment is started, the better the outcome in the long run.

The relationship between women’s health and periodontal health is a two-way street, and prevention is the best strategy for maintaining overall well-being. The mouth is the one part of the body where you can have a direct impact on improving your health every day.

Gum disease is often referred to as a ‘silent disease’ because it can be painless, so many people don’t even realise they have a problem.

By taking care of your gums, you’re not only preventing dental problems, but also potentially reducing your risk of more serious health problems. New research even suggests a link between gum disease and fertility.

Here’s how different stages of hormonal status can affect inflammation and gum health:

Puberty: During adolescence, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone cause increased blood flow to the gums. This increased sensitivity can lead to an increased response to plaque, often resulting in red, swollen or bleeding gums – commonly referred to as pubertal gingivitis. Up to 70 % of teenage girls experience some form of gum inflammation during this period.

Menstrual cycle: Before their period, some women may notice swollen gums, increased bleeding or even ulcers. Most women don’t experience major changes in their gums during their period, but those who do may blame it on chance, not realising that hormones are the trigger. These symptoms (sometimes called ‘menstrual gingivitis’) usually go away once your period begins or ends, and persistent bleeding after this phase may indicate an underlying gum problem unrelated to hormones.

Pregnancy: Pregnancy causes significant hormonal shifts, leading to increased gum sensitivity. It is estimated that 60-75% of expectant mothers develop ‘pregnancy gingivitis’, a mild form of gum disease, by the second trimester. Due to increased levels of progesterone and estrogen, gums become more prone to swelling, redness and soreness, usually between the second and eighth months of pregnancy.

Menopause: hormonal changes during menopause – most notably a decrease in estrogen levels – can lead to oral health problems. Many menopausal women experience dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease because saliva helps protect teeth. Gums may also thin or become more sensitive, and some women experience a burning sensation in the mouth or a change in taste.

‘Women should take a proactive approach to gum health by practising good oral hygiene, brushing at least twice a day, flossing, using interdental brushes and mouthwashes as recommended by their dentist, and visiting the dentist regularly to make sure you are being properly monitored. After all, a healthy mouth is a key part of a healthy life,’ say the researchers.

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Health Point World Clinic (Dr Soho & Health Point Clinic) Turkey,IstanbulLeave a request

Published: 08.03.2025

Updated: 07.03.2025

Medical author, Medical editor:

Stepan Yuk

Medical expert:

PhD. Olexandr Voznyak