A new study has found that gum disease can be reduced dramatically by using Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
The treatment, widely used by women in the United Kingdom, is known to help reduce common menopausal issues such as hot flushes but now it is thought it could also curb gum disease and help prevent tooth loss.
The study assessed almost 500 women between 50 and 87 and found that gum disease was far less prevalent among those who are receiving HRT.
The menopause, which commonly affects middle-aged women, can place ladies at risk of many health problems, like gum disease, as a result of decreased oestrogen levels.
Tooth loss is often caused as a result of gum disease and research tells us that over a quarter of women will loose teeth within five years of it striking.
In the UK, over one million women are undertaking HRT but the NHS believes that many more are enduring the symptoms of the menopause in silence.
Ewan Bramley Dental Care, a Newcastle dentist, is urging women to keep a check on their oral health around this time of their lives and is always at hand to offer advice when it comes to changes in our teeth and gums.
Dr Ewan Bramley explains: “Women face many changes in their bodies when they hit the middle age mark and we understand that this can have a big impact on their day to day lives. Oral health may seem like the last thing they want to think about but we believe it’s something that can be kept on top of quite easily and should be taken seriously.
“When oestrogen levels decline the gums and teeth can be more prone to disease and can lead to things like bleeding gums, inflammation and in the worst case scenario, missing teeth. If you’re concerned about your oral health we’re always on hand to help.”
Dry mouth and Burning Mouth Syndrome are also common oral health conditions that can be heightened during the menopausal phase of a women’s life and Ewan Bramley has added that HRT may well alleviate some of these painful symptoms but has stressed the importance of maintaining good oral health throughout your life.
Brushing twice a day, once in the morning and once late at night using fluoride toothpaste as well as cutting down on food and drink with a high sugar content, for example, will pay huge dividends in the long run.
Sticking to a positive routine will always remain the best method to minimising the risk of serious oral health problems.
Are you concerned about your oral health? For advice, guidance and information about our general dentistry service, call Ewan Bramley Dental Care on or fill in our E-form here.
