The hormones you produce can affect your gum condition throughout your life.

Puberty

Teenagers maybe cleaning their teeth very effectively and still experience gum inflammation (gingivitis). This is due to the increased circulation of hormones (for example, testosterone and estrogen) which occurs during puberty!

Menstruation

Bleeding, swollen gums and an increase in tooth mobility may occur due to an imbalance and/or an increase of hormones, during the menstrual cycle. Most women with healthy gums experience few changes to their gingiva. Recurrent ulcers, cold sores and fungal infections may also occur due to the presence of certain hormones in the middle of the menstrual cycle.

Pregnancy

"Pregnancy gum infections" are extremely common (and it is not just because of all the morning sickness!) and has been recognised as a phenomenon of pregnancy since the 1880's. Gum growths, known as granulomas, occur in up to 10% of pregnancies. These problems increase throughout the third trimester and then reduce following birth, due to the drop in circulating hormones.

Menopause & Post-Menopause

Osteoporosis is the most significant problems that develop during menopause and may result in an increased acceleration of bone loss in periodontal disease. With healthy gums, menopause is not a gum problem.

Postmenopausal women may complain about burning sensation, dry mouth and bad taste sensations. A study published in 1996 reported that the risk of tooth loss was significantly lower in postmenopausal hormone users.

A study by researchers at the University of Buffalo (USA) reported that it was particularly important for postmenopausal women to control periodontal disease - as these women were subject to unique factors that influence tooth loss (e.g. estrogen deficiency, hormone therapy and changes in bone mineral density). Maintenance hygiene appointments every 6 months or more are recommended to prevent tooth loss from gum disease, especially when medical or naturopathic medicines may cause dry mouth or reduced saliva flow.

Diabetics

Diabetics have a reduced healing capacity and hence it is suggested at Camp Hill Dental that oral hygiene appointments should be made 6 monthly or even 3 monthly.