Understanding menopause

The link between general and oral health has been widely explored in the literature, and as clinicians, we see the impact in front of us every day. We know and understand the importance of holistic approaches to dentistry, but there is a widespread change to health that still isn’t spoken about enough within the profession, especially regarding how it can affect implant surgery and restoration.

I’m talking about menopause, a natural part of ageing that traditionally affects women between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can occur earlier. The impact on an individual’s life is significant. Clinicians must consider how it changes a dental treatment plan by looking at some of the larger systemic issues.

A variety of challenges

The menopause can put a patient’s dentition at severe risk of infection and decay. Several hormonal changes occur which can make the gingiva more susceptible to plaque, with an increased risk for gingivitis and periodontitis.