If you are nearing your menopausal years, your estrogen levels may be on the decline. Estrogen plays an important role in the health of your teeth, gums, and the bones in your mouth. If you are deficient in estrogen, you may be at risk for developing cavities, gum disease, and bone loss. Here are three ways to prevent tooth damage during your menopausal years. 

Combination Calcium And Vitamin D Supplements

If you are in menopause, taking an over-the-counter combination calcium and vitamin D supplement may help protect your oral cavity. Menopause can raise your risk for osteoporosis, loss of bone density, and bone thinning.

This is often caused by calcium deficiencies that are common during menopause. While these problems typically affect the bones of your spine and hips, they can also lead to problems with the bones that support your teeth. Replacing lost calcium and vitamin D can help keep the bones in your mouth strong so that they can support your teeth, reduce your risk for cavities, and reduce your risk for receding gums tissue. 

Vitamin C

You may need to incorporate more vitamin C-rich foods into your daily meal plans during menopause. Vitamin C helps prevent menopause-related gingivitis and bleeding gums, and may even help prevent dental infections, abscessed teeth, and loose teeth.

If you develop a dental infection or abscessed tooth, root or nerve damage may occur. This can lead to serious tooth damage, and may even cause discoloration of your tooth. Dental bonding can help hide discoloration caused by infection or nerve damage, however, vitamin C may help prevent dental infections it in the first place. 

Estrogen Replacement Therapy

If you experience problems with your teeth or gums during menopause, talk to your physician about hormone replacement therapy. Replacing lost estrogen as you get older helps improve collagen function, enhances bone density, and staves off gum recession.

While taking supplemental estrogen will help reduce your risk for oral problems, it may not be an appropriate treatment for you. If you have had a gynecological cancer such as breast, uterus, endometrium, or ovary, estrogen may need to be avoided because these types of malignancies can be fueled by hormones such as estrogen.

If you notice bleeding gums, stained or loose teeth, a painful jaw, or new cavities during menopause, work with both your dentist, someone from a place like Holly Springs Dental Care, and physician to develop an effective treatment plan. When these two disciplines are involved in your health care, you will be less likely to experience dental problems related to menopause.