By Dr. Eric Wolfe
Menopause is often talked about as if it’s only a loss; in fact, Oprah Winfrey described it as women’s bodies betraying themselves. But as Whoopi Goldberg reminds us in her recent book The Change, this season of life offers much for which to be grateful. She frames menopause as a freedom rather than an ending. She suggests it’s a time of wisdom, self-assurance and a deeper connection to the true self – that it is in fact a hero’s journey. Perhaps menopause is a natural transition that brings its own gifts. One important, yet often overlooked, part of this change is how it affects our dental health – an area where awareness and gratitude can go hand in hand.
Menopause can affect your dental health in a variety of interconnected ways because of the hormonal changes—especially the decline in estrogen—that influence both your oral tissues and your bones. Here’s a full picture:
The Hero’s Toolkit for Dental Health in Menopause
1. Protect Your Gums.
Lower estrogen levels can make gums more inflamed and less resilient, leading to tenderness, bleeding and a higher chance of infection.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily.
- Ask us about antimicrobial rinses if bleeding or tenderness occurs.
2. Strengthen Your Bones and Jaw.
After menopause, decreased estrogen can accelerate osteoporosis, which may also affect the jawbone. This makes teeth less stable and increases the risk of tooth loss.
- Eat diets rich in calcium and vitamin D (think leafy greens, dairy or fortified alternatives).
- Stay active with weight-bearing exercise to support bone density.
- Talk to us if you are considering implants – jawbone health matters.
3. Conquer Dry Mouth.
Reduced saliva production is common during and after the menopause transition. Saliva is critical for washing away bacteria and acids, so dryness can increase cavities, gum disease and bad breath.
- Drink plenty of water daily.
- Chew sugar-free gum or use sugar-free lozenges to stimulate saliva.
- Ask us about saliva substitutes or fluoride treatments for added protection.
4. Care for Oral Tissues and Enamel.
Hormonal shifts can cause sensitivity, soreness or even changes in how food tastes.
- Choose gentle, alcohol-free mouth rinses to avoid irritation.
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth if you notice discomfort.
- Eat a balanced diet to reduce cravings that may erode enamel.
5. Watch the Bigger Picture.
Perio- and postmenopausal women can be more prone to diabetes and heart disease, both of which are also linked with gum disease. They may also be prone to anxiety and depression.
- Keep your physician and dentist connected. Systemic health conditions like diabetes or heart disease often overlap with gum health.
- Ask about how your medications may impact your mouth, and what you can do about side effects.
- Manage stress with rest, meditation and exercise. This change in lifestyle can also help reduce teeth grinding.
Just as Goldberg encourages woman to step into the heroism of this phase of life, Winfrey has encouraged women to become “the CEO of your own health,” advocating for themselves to receive the correct diagnosis and care from knowledgeable healthcare providers. You can safely do just that here with your dental team at Summit Smiles Dental.