Dental Health and Menopause

Physical Changes

Approximately 36 million women in the United States are currently in the postmenopausal phase of life. The hormonal changes that these women experience are many, and include hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. In addition, estrogen deprivation arising from menopause in association with age-related factors disproportionately increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and, what is of most interest to us as dentists, oral disease.

Dental Changes

We ask our patients to alert us of any physical or emotional changes they may be going through, and this is particularly important for women who are approaching menopause. Some of the conditions that may be created or exacerbated due to menopause include decrease in saliva flow, increased dental caries, taste alterations, gingivitis, periodontal disease or osteoporotic jaws.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Patients who take hormone replacement therapy may experience some of the oral health benefits it provides, including relief of the symptoms mentioned above, and prevention of tooth loss. In a recent study, postmenopausal women who took a daily dose of estrogen along with calcium, vitamin D and regular dental check-ups improved the condition of their jaw, which could potentially reduce the risk of tooth loss. Women who had regular check-ups but took only calcium and vitamin D also improved jaw mass and density, though to a significantly lesser extent than those who received estrogen. This was the first prospective, controlled study aimed at determining the effects of estrogen on the jaw.

HRT Toothpaste

There is also a HRT toothpaste being tested that may reach the market within the next five years. This toothpaste, which also works perfectly for dental hygiene, will offer an easily remembered alternative for women suffering the hot flushes, flagging libido and sleeplessness that often accompany menopause. Research at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston has shown that controlled, long-lasting doses of the female hormone estrogen can be administered effectively in this way. Although further trials are still required, the HRT toothpaste could reach the market within five years.

As family dentists, we are prepared to take care of you and your family through every state of your lives. And as your dental home, we have the privilege of watching your children grow and sharing those special milestones that seem to go by so quickly.
 

We were happily surprised a few weeks ago when all our family came together as we Anita and I were honored with the Presidents’ Award for Outstanding Leadership by B’nai Shalom Day School. Photographed at this very special occasion were: Judy Groner, Head of School, Dr. David Altman, President, Sam, Anita, Danielle, Me and Evi.