There are patients who, due to different circumstances, are more prone to periodontal disease. This is the case for women and the elderly, whose natural changes make them more vulnerable to the effects placed on the gums. In fact, the link between the two factors is their overall health: changes in the body and certain diseases can cause gingivitis or periodontitis. A local Dentist can answer the most frequently asked questions on the subject.
How does periodontal disease affect women? Because women suffer from hormonal changes throughout their lives, they are especially vulnerable to periodontal disease and gum disorders in general. In fact, there are two determining risks: pregnancy and menopause. First, every patient should know that gingivitis or periodontitis increases the risk of having an immature newborn. Preterm birth is a major health problem because, although perinatal mortality has been reduced drastically, it is among one of the major reasons for premature deaths. Research studies over the years show that periodontal disease in pregnant patients may be a significant risk factor for preterm low birth weight. Actually, your Dentist may say this oral health problem could be equated even to smoking and alcohol intake.
Secondly, it should be noted that periodontitis and menopause are also related. A clear decrease of certain hormones, called estrogen, can trigger an effect which allows osteoporosis to occur. As a result, the patient may be more susceptible to bacteria and thus increase their predisposition to periodontal disease. Moreover, it is known that women who have had tooth replacement therapy in suffer less to a degree. It is, therefore, essential to have great periodontal health since it is a guarantee of increased quality of life.
How does periodontal disease affect older people? Scientific studies demonstrate that elderly patients with more teeth are usually more active than others; they devote more time to exercise and do activities that keep them distracted. Therefore, women and men with more teeth have more physical strength, bending capacity and faster reaction. These results could be associated with psychological factors: to have a healthy mouth and aesthetically pleasing mouth allows people to engage in more activities. Visit to learn more.
