TePe explores the impact of hormones on oral health – both in women during menopause or in andropause and other life stages in men.
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating many bodily functions, including oral health. While much attention is given to hormonal changes in women – especially during menopause – men also experience hormonal fluctuations that can affect their oral health. One of the most common and impactful symptoms linked to hormonal changes is dry mouth (xerostomia), which can have significant consequences for dental and overall wellbeing.
Hormonal changes and oral health in women
Menopause and its effects
Menopause marks a major hormonal transition, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55, characterised by a decline in oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones are vital for maintaining healthy gums, oral tissues, and bone density. As oestrogen levels drop, several oral health issues may arise:
- Dry mouth (xerostomia): reduced oestrogen can decrease saliva production, leading to a dry, sticky, or uncomfortable mouth. Saliva is essential for neutralising acids, washing away food particles, and protecting tooth enamel. Without adequate moisture, the risk for cavities, gum disease, and oral infections increases dramatically
- Gum sensitivity and recession: hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive, inflamed, and prone to bleeding. Some women may experience menopausal gingivostomatitis, with bright red, dry, or shiny gums
- Burning mouth syndrome: a burning or scalding sensation in the mouth, tongue, lips, or palate, often without visible signs, is linked to hormonal changes and can be chronic
- Changes in taste: foods may taste unusually bitter, metallic, or sour due to hormonal fluctuations and changes in salivary glands
- Bone density loss: oestrogen is vital for bone health, including the jawbone. Its decline can lead to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Daily life impact
Dry mouth can make chewing and swallowing difficult, cause speech problems, burning sensations, and sore throat. Night time dryness may disrupt sleep and increase the risk of dental decay.
Management strategies
- Hydration: sip water frequently and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks
- Saliva stimulation: chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free lozenges
- Oral care products: use saliva substitutes, moisturising gels, and alcohol-free mouth rinses. Products like TePe Hydrating Mouthwash and Gel are specifically designed for dry mouth relief
- Lifestyle adjustments: avoid smoking, maintain a healthy diet, and improve oral hygiene.
Hormonal changes and oral health in men
While the effects of hormones on men’s oral health are less direct, they are still significant:
- Testosterone: plays a role in maintaining gum and jawbone health. Lower testosterone levels, especially during andropause (male menopause), can increase the risk of gum disease and bone loss
- Cortisol (stress hormone): chronic stress can elevate cortisol, weaken the immune system and making gums more susceptible to infection and inflammation
- Thyroid hormones: imbalances can lead to dry mouth, altered taste, and increased susceptibility to oral infections
- Medication side effects: men taking prescription drugs for heart disease or other conditions may experience dry mouth, contributing to tooth decay and gum disease.
Life stages
- Adolescence: rising testosterone can increase gum sensitivity and plaque production
- Adulthood: stress, aging, and medical conditions like diabetes can influence hormone levels and oral health
- Andropause: reduced saliva production and bone density loss are common, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Dry mouth: causes and consequences
Dry mouth is not exclusive to menopause or aging; it can affect people of all ages due to:
- Medications: antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, and blood pressure medications are common culprits
- Medical conditions: diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s can reduce saliva production
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol use, dehydration, and stress.
Symptoms
- Sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
- Thick, stringy saliva
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Burning sensation on the tongue
- Cracked lips or mouth sores
- Altered taste and bad breath.
Risks
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Problems with dentures
- Oral infections (eg candida)
- Poor sleep and nutritional challenges.
Practical tips for managing dry mouth
- Drink small sips of water regularly
- Chew sugar-free gum or lozenges
- Use alcohol-free mouth rinses with fluoride
- Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption
- Consult a dental professional or doctor if symptoms persist.
Looking for ways to stay hydrated? Explore the full TePe Hydrate range, available to order directly from www.tepedirect.com or conveniently on the high street at Boots stores. Perfect for supporting oral health and hydration every day.
Conclusion
Hormonal changes – whether due to menopause in women or andropause and other life stages in men – can significantly impact oral health, with dry mouth being a common and often overlooked symptom. Understanding these connections empowers individuals to take proactive steps in managing their oral health, seek appropriate treatments, and maintain a better quality of life.
This article is sponsored by Tepe.
