Hot flashes and mood swings are not the only things women go through during menopause. You may also experience a sore and/or mouth, receding gums, and a loss of bone density in the jaw. If you were a bit lax on your regular dental checkups, it is now more important to make sure you visit your dentist at least twice a year. Consider what these problems mean to your teeth and dental health and make your next appointment.

Sore or Dry Mouth

If your mouth is dry, food particles and bacteria are not being properly rinsed away. They sit on and between your teeth, causing cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. These issues could be the cause of your mouth pain, but the decline in hormones may also be the culprit. It is common to experience burning sensations in your mouth and your sense of taste may be off.

Receding Gums

The lack of estrogen can also lead to receding gums. They may become inflamed, red, and sore. This allows for more food particles and bacteria to cause disease and illness. This may not only affect your mouth and teeth, but the bacteria may travel in your bloodstream to other organs. You need to have your teeth cleaned professionally on a regular basis. It might also be necessary to have the area under the gums cleaned too. Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist to have this done.

Bone Loss

Bone loss and osteoporosis affect all the bones in your body, including your jaw. As the jaw weakens your teeth will become loose. If you have any partials, implants, or other type of false teeth, they too will become loose. In addition, any false teeth may become uncomfortable as the jaw bone changes. Your dentist can help you decide what will be the easiest way to keep teeth in your mouth – be it your own or false. Having teeth missing that you do not replace will only make the situation worse. Your jawbone needs to be stimulated by teeth as you chew or it will disintegrate faster.

Your dental concerns will change as you enter menopause and after. Maintaining good dental health will require more input on your part and the help of your dentist. A nice smile and good dental health can help keep you in a good mood when everything else seems to be making you feel crappy about life and yourself.