Menopause & Oral Health
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At Modbury Dental Practice, we want to shine a light on how menopause can affect oral health — and what you can do to protect your mouth through this transition.
As we recognise Menopause Awareness Month 2025, Modbury Dental Practice wants to highlight a topic that’s often overlooked — how menopause affects your mouth. Many women experience changes to their gums, teeth, and oral comfort during this time. Understanding these changes and knowing how to manage them is key to protecting your long-term dental health.
During perimenopause and menopause, oestrogen (and often progesterone) levels decline. This drop can make gums more sensitive, increase inflammation, and speed gum recession. Bone density elsewhere in the body can fall and the jawbone is not exempt. When the jawbone weakens, tooth stability may suffer.
Many women report dry mouth in menopause. A dry mouth means saliva—which protects teeth—is reduced. That leads to more cavity risk. Some women suffer from burning mouth syndrome — a painful, tingling or burning sensation in the mouth.
With more plaque, sensitive gums, weaker bone, & gum disease risk rises. Decay risk also increases, especially in areas where saliva flow is low. If untreated, these issues may contribute to tooth loss.
Research suggests that women with missing teeth or poor periodontal health sometimes report lower emotional or psychological well-being post-menopause.
In short: menopause doesn’t just bring hot flashes and mood swings — your mouth may feel it too.
Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste.
Floss or use interdental brushes at least once a day.
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash or saliva substitute if your mouth feels dry.
Hydrate well—water throughout the day helps.
Regular check-ups and cleanings help catch gum disease or decay early.
Inform your dentist about menopause or hormonal therapy (HRT) if you are taking it.
Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D (good for bone health).
Avoid excessive sugary or acidic snacks that harm enamel.
If you smoke, quitting helps your gums heal.
Stress, poor sleep, and poor general health worsen oral problems.
Saliva stimulants or substitutes may help with dry mouth.
Topical fluoride gels can strengthen enamel.
In more advanced cases, periodontal treatment or gum grafting may be considered.
Work with your GP or menopause specialist if systemic therapy (e.g. HRT) is appropriate
If you're experiencing unusual oral symptoms — dryness, burning, gum bleeding, sensitivity — book an appointment.
Call us on 01548 830811
