We all dream about having a bright charming smile. Having good oral health is essential to prevent bad breath, tooth decay, and gum diseases. Not only that having a beautiful smile is important for your aesthetics, but it is also vital for overall good health.
However, surprisingly as it may be, men and women have different oral health needs and concerns. The hormonal fluctuations seem to affect more than a woman’s reproductive system, it can have a huge influence on oral health too. According to medical specialists, women experience different oral health needs at the different stages throughout their lives such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause.
All changes that occur in a woman’s body that also influence her oral health are primarily related to the changing hormone levels her body experiences. Here are the main oral health concerns women may face and the good oral hygiene habits that are essential for a healthy mouth:
Factors that influence women’s oral health
Compared to the oral health needs of men, women experience changes and issues depending on the hormonal fluctuations from their bodies in different life stages. Understanding the factors that may influence their mouth health is the first step into learning how to protect their oral cavity from different disease.
Pregnancy- Pregnancy is the life stage of a woman which can have the biggest influence on her oral health due to the number of physical changes that take place in her body. During pregnancy, women experience changes in their oral cavity too. From being more predisposed to oral diseases such as pregnancy gingivitis, tooth erosion, and dental caries, they may experience changes of gums and teeth.
Menstruation- Most women who have poor oral health can experience bleeding gums, cold sores, or canker sores prior to their periods. However, the symptoms usually relieve when the period starts.
Menopause- During menopause, it is very common for women to develop a dry mouth and sensitive gums. The inflammation of the gums leads to oral pain and discomfort or to unpleasing burning sensations.
Osteoporosis- Medical specialists have explained that there is a strong link between osteoporosis and oral health problems. Due to the decreased density of the bones that support the teeth, osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss.
Contraceptive pills- Women who take contraceptive pills are more prone to experiencing inflamed gums because of the progesterone or the estrogen that exist in these pills.
The experts at Mornington Peninsula Dental explain that regardless of the life stages, women should be very considerate about taking good care of their oral health to prevent common oral health problems and their possible complications.
Health complications of a poor oral health
Medical specialists warn us that an unhealthy mouth can increase the risk of the development of severe health problems including stroke, heart attack, diabetes, or respiratory problems. Gum diseases are represented by a bacterial infection of the gum tissues. The infection can enter the bloodstream and lead to other serious health complications.
When the immune system in your body is strong enough, the bacterial infection from your mouth doesn’t cause any additional problems because it will eliminate the oral bacteria that enter in the bloodstream. However, if it is weak for a variety of reasons, the bacteria that enters into the bloodstream causes infection and affects your overall health. The most common health complications of poor oral health include cardiovascular diseases, complications from diabetes, and premature birth.
How to maintain good oral health?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital for having a bright smile. Here are the most essential ways to maintain good dental health:
Brush your teeth
Dentists recommend us to brush our teeth at least twice a day for good oral health. If possible, it is recommended to brush your teeth after every meal you have. Also, it is important to brush your teeth for at least two minutes to ensure that you have cleaned every part of your mouth.
It is also essential to floss once a day to remove food remains and plague that cumulates between your teeth. While brushing, the area in the middle of your teeth is unreachable meaning that you can’t ensure the full cleaning of your oral cavity. Thus, flossing with interdental cleaners or water flossers is essential to maintain clean and healthy teeth.
Use fluoridated toothpaste
Brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste is essential to maintain good dental health because it is the best way to help prevent premature tooth decay. By hardening the tooth enamel, it also reduces the risk of decay. Also, you can supplement the cleaning of your teeth with a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen the weak spots of your teeth and exposed roots.
Get dental checkups twice a year
Regular dental checkups are essential to keep your mouth healthy. Dentists recommend a visit every 6 months to ensure good dental health. However, you should listen to the recommendations of your dental professional in case you suffer from diabetes or have a weak immune system.
The other health conditions that you may be suffering from can have a huge influence on your oral health too because you are more prone to developing gum or other dental diseases. It is important to consult with your dentist on how frequently you should visit for a dental checkup.
Have a healthy diet
You certainly know the saying “an apple a day keeps the dentist away”. Well, this saying is so famous because it is extremely true. Heaving a healthy diet is another important step in maintaining good dental health. Keeping your teeth and gums clean is essential to prevent gum or dental disease. However, what you eat or drink can also have a huge impact on your mouth health. Dentists recommend a diet rich in calcium, vitamin C, and phosphorus for good dental health. You should include in your nutrition habits foods such as yogurt, almonds, eggs, fish, nuts, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Maintaining your good oral health takes a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits, regular dentist visits, and a healthy diet.