Select Dental Logo

Red Gums in Women: Warning Signs Woman Should Know

Jan 02, 2022
Did you know that hormonal changes in women can cause changes to your oral health, too?

Red Gums in Women: Warning Signs Woman Should Know

Did you know that hormonal changes in women can cause changes to your oral health, too? Some women going through hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation, may have noticed a slight change in their gums. Red gums may be associated with hormonal changes. You may be wondering what the connection is between red gums in women and hormonal changes, as well as what you can do to help them.

It is no secret that your hormones have an expansive effect on your body. From mood changes to your well-being, among many other factors. Your oral health is another element that can be affected by hormone changes. Plenty of women going through hormonal changes may notice a change in their gums, which usually is characterized by red, swollen, or sensitive gums during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or menstruation. Additionally, women may experience red or swollen gums while taking birth control or certain medications.

What Does it Mean?

With that being said, what exactly does this mean? Red, swollen, or sensitive gums are signs of gum disease, which is otherwise known as periodontal disease. Women who are experiencing hormonal changes may be at risk for periodontal disease.

Some of the symptoms that you can expect if you have gum disease include:

  • Red, sensitive, or swollen gums
  • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
  • Bad breath
  • A foul taste in your mouth
  • An abnormal ‘pocket’ or gap in between your gums and teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • A misaligned bite

It is important to know that individuals can still get gum disease without experiencing any symptoms. Therefore, it is imperative that you visit your dentist regularly for comprehensive exams to ensure that your oral health is in good condition. Your dentist will be able to determine whether gum disease is present and take the necessary steps in treating it. Additionally, your dentist is there to help provide you with knowledge and advice so you know how to prevent gum disease.

Red Gums in Women: Warning Signs Woman Should Know

At Select Dental Office, our team specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of periodontal disease. With years of experience helping our patients receive the best dental and periodontal care, we are confident in our services and the results that we provide. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or are curious to learn more about periodontal disease and would like to take the necessary steps in preventing it, contact our team to schedule an appointment with our trusted periodontist.

What Types of Hormonal Changes Are Linked to Gum Disease?

Essentially, any stage of life that impacts your sex hormones can increase the chance of gingivitis, which is an early-stage gum disease; or periodontal disease, which is a more advanced stage of gum disease. Additionally, any medications or conditions that are linked to your sex hormones can make you more susceptible to gingivitis or periodontal disease. This is because as a woman, your sex hormones have shown to increase inflammatory responses. It is important to know that although hormonal changes can increase your risk of developing gum disease, it is not the direct cause of it. This is because gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria, which are formed from poor dental care and a poor diet. Therefore, it is extremely important that you take great care of your oral health by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily. Additionally, you should visit your dentist for routine dental exams and cleaning at least twice a year.

Hormonal changes that can increase the risk of red, swollen, or sensitive gums, or gum disease include:

  • Puberty
  • Menopause
  • Menstruation
  • Pregnancy
  • Birth control
  • Medications that affect your hormones
  • Hormonal conditions

If you would like to schedule an appointment with our team at Select Dental Office for an exam, feel free to contact our office today. Our team is committed to helping our patients get the dental care that they need and deserve.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

As mentioned previously, hormonal changes are not the direct cause of gum disease. However, it does increase the risk if you do not take control of your oral health. Gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease, can be reversible with certain lifestyle changes. Although having red, swollen, or sensitive gums during hormonal changes is possible, you have the power to take control of your oral health to avoid the buildup of bacteria and plaque. It is crucial to take good care of your oral health no matter what, but especially if you are experiencing red or swollen gums. If left untreated, your condition can worsen and progress to periodontal disease, which is the more advanced stage of gum disease. When you take care of your oral health during the onset of gingivitis, it is much easier to treat as opposed to periodontal disease. Here are some helpful tips to treat and prevent gingivitis:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Floss your teeth once a day using floss, a flossing tool, or an interdental brush
  • Rinse your mouth using an antiseptic mouthwash
  • Avoid smoking or the use of other tobacco products
  • Have a healthy diet low in sugary or acidic foods
  • Visit your dentist regularly for routine dental exams

While red or swollen gums during the stage of gingivitis can be treated at home, it is still important to see your dentist to ensure that you are taking the right steps in reversing the condition. On the other hand, if the gum disease has progressed to periodontal disease, then you will need to see a specialist for periodontal disease treatment.

At Select Dental Office, our dentists and periodontists can provide you with the treatment you need to get your oral health back on track. We are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the necessary treatment for your condition. To learn more about how we can help improve your oral health, feel free to contact our team to schedule an appointment with our highly experienced dental professionals.