It's not quite accurate to say that gum problems affect men and women equally. Female hormones make women more likely to notice a red gum colour and other symptoms of gum disease at certain times in their lives. The hormonal changes that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause and contraceptive use can all have an effect on the health and condition of a woman's gums.
Puberty
Just when you thought puberty couldn't get any worse, along comes information that this life stage can cause red gums and make them more sensitive.The increase in progesterone and possibly estrogen that happen during puberty increases the flow of blood to the gums. As a result, the gums can be tender and more sensitive to irritation, particularly if plaque is allowed to build up on them and on the teeth. During puberty, it's a good idea for teenage women to see their dentist regularly and to commit to brushing twice a day and flossing daily to keep as much plaque off the teeth and gums as possible.
Menstruation
Some women know they are about to get their period because they crave chocolate all the time. Others feel puffy and bloated. Others might notice changes in their gums, such as inflammation and increased tenderness. Menstruation gingivitis is caused by the increased levels of estrogen in the blood right before a woman starts her period. Some women notice that their gums are more tender, swollen and red a few days before their cycle starts.
Menstruation gingivitis usually goes away when a woman's monthly period begins. You can help minimise symptoms by taking good care of your teeth at the time and during the rest of the month too.
Pregnancy
The hormonal fluctuations associated with pregnancy can also increase your risk for bleeding gums and other signs of early gum disease. Pregnancy increases blood flow, which is also associated with red, tender gums.
How to cope with changes in your gums during pregnancy depends on how severe those changes are. Some women need to simply double down on their oral care at home or see their dentist for an oral evaluation and deep cleaning. If the gum disease has progressed, a dentist might prescribe a pregnancy-safe antibiotic to clear up any infection in the gums.
Menopause
As if changes in the gums due to puberty, pregnancy and menstruation weren't enough, women going through or just past menopause may also notice some trouble with their gums. One problem with gums that's unique to menopausal women is menopausal gingivostomatitis, or atrophy of the oral mucosa, which can lead to red gums, dryness in the gums, and inflammation. Hormonal therapy may help ease the symptoms and discomfort.
Contraceptive Use
If you're on the pill or another type of hormonal birth control, you want to be aware of two things. The progesterone in many hormonal contraceptives can cause an increase in inflammation in the gums, due to increased blood flow. As the study in the International Journal of Dentistry notes, the longer you use contraceptives, the more likely you are to notice changes in your gums.
The other point to be aware of is that some antibiotics that would clear up gum disease might negatively affect your birth control. Antibiotics often make birth control pills less effective, so make sure you tell your dentist what you are taking before you start a course of antibiotics.
As a woman, you may face challenges to your gum and dental health over the years, including a red gum colour. Regular dental check-ups and a good oral care routine at home can help you protect your mouth through all of life's stages.
