MEN AND WOMEN don’t always face the same dental health challenges, nor do they have the same dental health advantages. The bad news for women is that hormone changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can all contribute to oral health issues. It increases the risk of gingivitis and gum inflammation, making brushing and flossing even more crucial. Menopause is also associated with dry mouth and bone loss in the jaw.
Conditions That Affect Women More
Women receive 90% of TMD diagnoses. Some of that could be because they’re more likely to seek a diagnosis, but it can’t account for the entire gap. Women are also more vulnerable to Sjörgen’s syndrome, which causes dry mouth.
Eating disorders are incredibly harmful to oral health, weakening oral tissues through malnutrition and (when purging is involved) directly damaging tooth enamel through acid erosion. These disorders affect teenage girls at twice the rate of teenage boys.
The Big Advantage
The best advantage women have in spite of all these increased risks is that women are more diligent at caring for their teeth and gums. They are more likely to keep up with their daily oral hygiene habits and schedule regular dental visits, and they’re quicker to see the dentist when experiencing symptoms. By contrast, men have a bad habit of trying to tough it out.
Prioritize Your Oral Health
Do everything you can to give your oral health an advantage, even in the face of risk factors. Maintain diligent oral hygiene habits by brushing twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and limiting sugary drinks and snacks to mealtimes. Don’t forget those regular dental appointments to stay ahead of any emerging problems!
