Women and Gum Disease Volume 1

Females generally have different needs at various stages of life. Puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause can all affect the dental health and the need for treatment of a woman.  During these periods, the body of a woman undergoes hormonal changes that can make ones gums (periodontal tissues) sensitive and increase her risk for periodontal (gum) disease.  By understanding these changes, one can make informed decision as to how to practice good dental health habits that can keep ones teeth and gums healthy.  American Dental Association (http://www.ada.org) and your dentist have information for you.

WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the gums and bone that help anchor the teeth in the mouth caused by dental plaque, a sticky film of bacteria (germs) that adheres to teeth surface.  Dental plaque forms regularly on teeth and do build up if it is not removed through daily oral hygiene.  The bacteria in dental plaque produce toxins that irritate gums.  In the early stage, called Gingivitis, gums swell, turn red and do bleed readily.  Eventually, the gum may separate from a tooth and form deepened spaces called Pockets.  In this stage, called Periodontitis, the bone and soft tissues that support the teeth are destroyed, which ultimately can cause the teeth to be loose, fall out, or require removal by any licensed dentist in your state.

Gum disease occurs at any age, but it is most common in adults.  In fact, 3 out of 4 adults are affected by this disease at some point in their lives.  women are especially susceptible to the disease at certain stages of life.  You can be sure that hormonal changes can affect the blood supply to the gums, and response to irritants from dental plaque may be extra-large i.e. exaggerated.  The periodontal tissue is a target for female hormones, which makes it much more sensitive to changes in the levels of these hormones.  Any person who is already prone to the disease, may find the problem worsening during hormonal changes.

VOLUME 2 will include Monthly Cycle, Pregnancy.

VOLUME 3 will include Teen-age years, Menopause and What to do to help Oneself.

For more information visit American Dental Association website (http://www.ada.org) or write ADA for information.  The bulk of the material obtained from ADA patient education handouts.  You can also speak with your dentist about periodontal disease and your dental health.

Mouth Irritation-Take Action to Manage

There are many different types of mouth irritations.
Canker sores occur only inside the mouth, on the tongue and inside linings of the cheeks, throats and lips. They are not contagious. These sores are usually larger than fever blisters and do not heal quickly. This condition is not well understood. They do not appear to be caused by bacteria or viruses. Research suggests that they may grow from a fault in one’s body’s immune system or from nutritional deficiencies, emotional stress and mouth injury can trigger outbreaks. 
Fever Blisters, also called cold sores, are small sores that usually occur outside the mouth on the lip, chin or cheek. When blisters appear in side the mouth, they usually are found on the gums or the roof of the mouth. Unlike canker sores, the blisters are caused by a virus, herpes simplex. This virus is highly contagious unlike canker sores when the blisters are present. The blisters may disappear but the virus remains in the body. This explains why some people may have recurrent cold sores. Many things can trigger reoccurrence including, fever, stress, illness, injury and exposure to sunlight. There is no known cure for fever blisters. There are medications to help reduce the pain from the outbreak of any of these two. Ask your dentist, or e-mail us at dentallwellness@juno.com

Are You at Risk for Gum Disease?

Gum disease is painless. It affects 87% of the population, and often victims are unaware.

There are early warning signs, and the American Dental Association and your dentist want you to be aware of them: 

• Do your gums bleed when you brush your mouth or toothpick between them?
• Are your gums red, swollen, or tender?
• Are your gums pulling away from your teeth?
• Do you see pus between your teeth and your gums when the gums are pressed? 
• Are your permanent teeth loose or separating?
• Is there any change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth (bite)?
• Is there any change in the fit of your partial denture?
• Do you have bad breath?

If the answer is yes to any of these questions, you may want to bring it to the attention of your dentist or dental hygienist.