Periodontal or gum disease can affect your health in many ways. Read on to find out more.
​Periodontal disease and general health
Women and Periodontal Disease
Hormonal fluctuations or changes that occur during puberty,
menstruation, pregnancy and menopause may affect the gums and increase a
woman's risk to periodontal disease. Any pre-existing periodontal
disease can become more severe.
During puberty, increased level of hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen cause increased gum sensitivity, leading to a greater reaction to food particles and the presence of plaque. The gums become swollen, turn red and may feel painful to touch.
Some women experience similar symptoms 3 to 4 days prior to their period. Others may experience menstruation gingivitis, which is characterised by bleeding gums, a bright red swelling of the gums between teeth and sores or ulcers in the mouth. The symptoms usually clear up once the period starts.
To continue reading this article, please click here.
In partnership with
