The surprising ways menopause can affect your mouth
Key Points:
- A Delta Dental survey found that 70% of women aged 50 and older experienced oral health problems since starting menopause, yet 84% were unaware these issues could be linked to hormonal changes.
- Declining estrogen during menopause reduces saliva production, leading to dry mouth, increased cavities, oral thrush, and burning sensations in the mouth.
- Other common dental issues reported include tooth sensitivity (28%), tooth decay (20%), receding gums (33%), and bleeding gums (16%), with osteoporosis potentially causing bone loss in the jaw.
- Despite widespread problems, only 2% of women had discussed oral health concerns with a dentist, but 77% planned to prioritize dental exams after learning about the menopause connection.
- Experts