Women’s dental health is not only determined by their lifestyle, but also by their hormonal nature. Because they have hormones that fluctuate now and then, women are prone to be more exposed to dental problems than men.
When it comes to contraceptives, there are several options, majority which are very hormonal. These only goes to make things worse for women because then they add more hormones to their natural ones. A few of the non-hormonal contraceptives still have their own side effects.
With the above in mind, women have to be more vigilant when it comes to taking care of their oral health, because these hormones play a huge role in advancing dental infections.
What Infections are You Prone To when You Use Contraceptives?
- Risk for gingivitis: This is the inflammation of gums. Because of the hormonal imbalances, women tend to experience swelling of the gums, especially during the menstruation period. This is worsened when they are on contraceptives. Hormonal contraceptives inhibit the natural functioning of body hormones, which makes the body to respond differently to infections.
- Tooth cavities: Hormonal imbalances come with a lot of food cravings, most being sugar. This is always an automatic response to the body balancing the normal hormones. That is why some women on hormonal contraceptives gain a lot of weight because of the cravings that have them eating the wrong food. Sugar is known for causing tooth cavities and if taken over time, it causes decay.
- Sores: The hormonal imbalance also causes mouth sores as the gums become tender. This is also experienced by some women during their periods or ovulation. It is made worse when one is on a hormonal contraceptive.
- Dry mouth: Some contraceptives have severe side effects, which can lead to a dry mouth. A dry mouth means more exposure to cavities, as saliva helps to clean the teeth of food particles. Once you notice such a side effect, talk to your doctor, so they can put you on the right contraceptive before things get worse.
- Swelling and bleeding of gums: This is very common and is an on and off side effect of some hormonal contraceptives. Most people experience this, but it is heightened by imbalanced hormones. Most women have to deal with this as their body adjust to the foreign elements that are introduced to the body by contraceptives. Once the body has adjusted to the hormones, then one gets back to feeling like their usual self.
Dealing With Dental Health While On Contraceptives
Since this is part of women’s day to day life, it is only fair that they learn how to take care of their dental health more. Contraceptives are used a form of family planning and it cannot be avoided, especially by women who are of child bearing age. Some measures to take to manage this includes:
- Brushing daily (and flossing) with a fluoride toothpaste: Brushing twice a day will help to strengthen your teeth. It has to be a routine, whether one is in the mood or not. Brushing helps prevent some infections that come with the hormonal imbalances. It also helps to protect the teeth from cavities and keeps them strong.
- Dental check-ups: You have to go for routine dental check-up, to ensure your oral health is well taken care of. This is helpful in picking up any infections before they get worse. Let your “cosmetic dentist Brooklyn NY” know whenever you feel strange side effects after being put on a contraceptive. If they are severe, they can put you on one that works well with your body.
- Nutritious diet: Women have to make sure they do not give in to the cravings that come with hormonal imbalance. Make sure you are eating healthy food and drinking a lot of water to keep your hormones in check. A healthy diet helps to lower the negative effects of contraceptives, which ultimately means your oral health will be on point.
- Incorporate exercise in your routine: simple exercise help with blood flow and reduces the hormonal imbalance in the body, which means you are less likely to experience severe side effects of the contraceptive. It also means one hydrates more keeping the mouth clean. Make sure you do some activities at least three times a week to keep your body active and encourage blood flow. This positively affects one’s oral health too.
- Control your cravings: Eat more fruits and vegetables, which helps to keep some hormonal cravings in check. You teeth and gums will do much better with a healthy diet.
In Closing
Contraceptives affect your dental health. If you notice something isn’t right with your teeth, contact a “cosmetic dentist Brooklyn NY” today to find a solution fast.
