News | Gum disease may affect more than teeth, with links to fertility, heart health, and emotional well-being
Bleeding gums may not simply mean that you brushed too hard; they can be a sign that your body needs attention.
New information from the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) shows that hormonal fluctuations in women, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can substantially affect gum and overall health.
EFP Secretary General Professor Nicola West said many women do not know that hormonal changes can make gums more vulnerable and prone to inflammation. Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammatory condition that may affect cardiovascular and immune health and may be associated with fertility.
Data reveal the cost of low awareness
A study of women over 50 found that 84% did not know menopause could affect oral health. Among menopausal women, 70% reported at least one new oral symptom, such as dry mouth or sensitive gums, but only 2% mentioned it to a dentist. Many may therefore experience untreated gum disease without appropriate support.
Professor West urged women to monitor their oral health throughout life. Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or oral discomfort should be taken seriously as signs that oral care may need improvement. Earlier treatment generally leads to better outcomes.
How hormonal stages affect the gums
Puberty:
Rising estrogen and progesterone increase blood flow to the gums and sensitivity to plaque. About 70% of adolescent girls develop signs of pubertal gingivitis, including red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Menstrual cycle:
Before menstruation, some women develop swollen or bleeding gums or mouth ulcers. Menstrual gingivitis usually improves after menstruation begins, but persistent symptoms may indicate another periodontal problem.
Pregnancy:
Hormonal surges cause pregnancy gingivitis in 60%–75% of pregnant women, usually from months 2 through 8. Symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding, or tender gums. Without timely care, it may progress to more serious periodontal disease and potentially affect fetal health.
Menopause:
Declining estrogen may cause dry mouth, burning sensations, gum recession, or taste changes. Reduced saliva weakens protection of the teeth and raises the risks of tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Prevention is the most effective treatment
EFP president-elect and Gum Health Day 2025 coordinator Tali Chackartchi said gum disease is often called a silent disease because it can cause substantial harm without obvious symptoms. Daily gum care can help prevent dental problems and may also reduce wider health risks involving cardiovascular health and fertility.
Oral-care recommendations for women:
Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Clean between teeth with floss or interdental brushes
Use mouthwash as recommended by a dentist
Have an oral examination at least every six months
Monitor gum health closely during pregnancy and menopause and discuss changes promptly with a dentist
“A healthy mouth is part of a healthy life,” Chackartchi concluded.
News | Gum disease may affect more than teeth, with links to fertility, heart health, and emotional well-being
News | Gum disease may affect more than teeth, with links to fertility, heart health, and emotional well-being
Bleeding gums may not simply mean that you brushed too hard; they can be a sign that your body needs attention.
New information from the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) shows that hormonal fluctuations in women, especially during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can substantially affect gum and overall health.
EFP Secretary General Professor Nicola West said many women do not know that hormonal changes can make gums more vulnerable and prone to inflammation. Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammatory condition that may affect cardiovascular and immune health and may be associated with fertility.
Data reveal the cost of low awareness
A study of women over 50 found that 84% did not know menopause could affect oral health. Among menopausal women, 70% reported at least one new oral symptom, such as dry mouth or sensitive gums, but only 2% mentioned it to a dentist. Many may therefore experience untreated gum disease without appropriate support.
Professor West urged women to monitor their oral health throughout life. Bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or oral discomfort should be taken seriously as signs that oral care may need improvement. Earlier treatment generally leads to better outcomes.
How hormonal stages affect the gums
Puberty:
Rising estrogen and progesterone increase blood flow to the gums and sensitivity to plaque. About 70% of adolescent girls develop signs of pubertal gingivitis, including red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Menstrual cycle:
Before menstruation, some women develop swollen or bleeding gums or mouth ulcers. Menstrual gingivitis usually improves after menstruation begins, but persistent symptoms may indicate another periodontal problem.
Pregnancy:
Hormonal surges cause pregnancy gingivitis in 60%–75% of pregnant women, usually from months 2 through 8. Symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding, or tender gums. Without timely care, it may progress to more serious periodontal disease and potentially affect fetal health.
Menopause:
Declining estrogen may cause dry mouth, burning sensations, gum recession, or taste changes. Reduced saliva weakens protection of the teeth and raises the risks of tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Prevention is the most effective treatment
EFP president-elect and Gum Health Day 2025 coordinator Tali Chackartchi said gum disease is often called a silent disease because it can cause substantial harm without obvious symptoms. Daily gum care can help prevent dental problems and may also reduce wider health risks involving cardiovascular health and fertility.
Oral-care recommendations for women:
Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Clean between teeth with floss or interdental brushes
Use mouthwash as recommended by a dentist
Have an oral examination at least every six months
Monitor gum health closely during pregnancy and menopause and discuss changes promptly with a dentist
“A healthy mouth is part of a healthy life,” Chackartchi concluded.
Source:
Collected online