In their late 40s or early 50s, most women go through a major hormonal shift known as menopause. This is a natural and healthy part of the life cycle of human females. However, it does come with some challenges and undesirable symptoms. It might even impact your oral health and your dental implants! Just how might menopause affect your prosthetic teeth? This blog post explains some relevant information.
Menopause and Oral Health
The hormonal changes associated with menopause, including a significant drop in estrogen levels, can negatively impact a woman’s oral health in multiple ways:
- Increased susceptibility to periodontal (gum) disease. Postmenopausal women are more likely to develop infections in their gum tissue, which come with an increased risk of tooth loss.
- Elevated risk of dry mouth. A lack of sufficient saliva can result in bad breath and oral infections.
- Bone deterioration. Menopause significantly raises the likelihood of osteoporosis, which weakens the jawbone and potentially causes tooth loss.
Dental Implants for Postmenopausal Women
The oral health issues mentioned above can heighten the chances of dental implant failure. Peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease, is particularly dangerous because it can erode the tissues surrounding a dental implant. A dry mouth can make it very easy for infection-causing bacteria to thrive, and a fragile jawbone might undermine an implant’s stability.
While that information might sound discouraging, there is reason to be hopeful! If menopause is a concern regarding your body’s ability to support dental implants, consult both your dentist and your primary care practitioner. They will provide a clear explanation of the risks involved and offer guidance that is specific to your unique situation. Whether you already have dental implants or are considering them, there is a strong possibility that you can enjoy durable and attractive replacement teeth for many years to come.
Steps to Prevent Dental Implant Failure
Your dental or medical team might recommend that you take the following steps to protect your dental implants:
- Consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Research indicates that women undergoing HRT have a 24% lower chance of developing severe gum disease.
- Adhere to a thorough oral hygiene routine. Your dentist or hygienist can advise you on effective techniques for minimizing the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth.
- Prioritize bone health. Consuming a diet rich in calcium, staying physically active, and taking appropriate medications can help prevent or manage osteoporosis. Limiting alcohol consumption is also advisable because it can hinder bone formation.
Although menopause can affect dental implants, it does not mean you will lose your smile. Most menopausal women with missing teeth can confidently opt for this durable and reliable form of tooth replacement.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Karl Anderson is an experienced implant dentist in Rapid City, SD. He uses advanced technology to perform the entire implant procedure, and he is not afraid to take on complex cases. If you are a menopausal or postmenopausal woman and would like to learn more about your tooth replacement options, our team is ready to consult with you. Get in touch with us at 605-721-1219.