Menopause and the oral cavity

Abstract

Menopause is associated with a large number of symptoms ranging from physical to psychological. These symptoms may unfavorably affect oral health and treatment needs requiring dentists to be aware of the symptoms and health care needs of peri-menopausal/menopausal/postmenopausal women. This article attempts to provide an insight into the multifarious oral manifestations at menopause along with the relevant prosthodontic implications.

A Literature Review on Women’s Oral Health Across the Life Span

“…Women taking hormone therapy may not experience oral problems as readily as their untreated counterparts, although hormone therapy has mixed results depending on the oral systemic health of each individual. Several studies have indicated that estrogen therapy protects against mandibular bone loss and diminishes the severity of periodontal disease in postmenopausal women (Haskin & Mobley, 2013;Mutneja, Dhawan, Raina, & Sharma, 2012).…”

“…The decrease in estrogen contributes to the drying of the oral mucosa and can lead to menopausal gingivostomatitis, which is characterized by gingiva that bleed readily, with an abnormally pale dry/shiny erythematous appearance (Mutneja et al, 2012). Unchecked, gingivitis leads to periodontitis.…”

Crosstalk between hormones and oral health in the mid-life of women: A comprehensive review

“…Such disorders have a tendency to influence impression-making procedures, recording jaw relations, and denture retention. [ 40 ] Thus, strategic protocols are suggested to menopausal women to reduce anxiety and stress during treatment procedures.…”

“…Menopausal women having eating disorders may suffer from smooth erosion of enamel, perimolysis, increased tendency to use pen and combs to induce vomiting, enlarged parotid glands, angular cheilitis, dehydration, erythema, and trauma to the oral mucosa and pharynx resulting from use of fingers. [ 40 ]…”

Mouth on fire: Oral discomfort in postmenopausal women may be surprising!!

“…Thus, employment of anxiety and stress reduction protocols are suggested in menopausal women during treatment procedures. [ 13 14 ]…”