When women think about birth control, they usually concentrate on the usual suspects – their periods, skin, mood, maybe even weight. But have you ever encouraged to think about how your contraception could affect your oral health? Yes, your birth control can influence your oral health. Regardless of whether you are on the pill, the patch, injection or an implant, Dr. Ockert Bekker, dentist, explains how these hormones could sneak into their smiles.
Concept and oral health contraception: What is the deal?
Hormonal birth control, especially those containing estrogen and progesterone, can affect your gums. These hormones not only regulate ovulation, but also affect blood flow in their mouth, which means that their gums can become more reactive on plaque and bacteria.
The result? Some women notice that their gums when brushing or dental floss a little sensitive, swollen or even bleeding – especially in the first few months, in which birth control begins or merges from one. This is known as hormonal gingivitis, and although it may sound scary, it is manageable with good mouth care and regular examinations. It is also common during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.
Read more: 5 Tikok teeth trends A dentist says you should skip
What about bone health?
There is still something that many people do not know: Long -term use of certain hormonal contraceptives, especially the injectable types that are very popular in South Africa, can easily reduce the bone density, even in their jaw. Over time, this could weaken the support structure around its teeth, especially if gum diseases are already in the picture.
If you have a family history of gum problems, smoke or conditions such as diabetes, the risk may be a bit higher – but knowledge is also made here.
To observe unexpected side effects
Some women on hormonal birth control experience the dry mouth (referred to as Xerostomy). That may not sound like a big deal, but saliva is the natural defense system of your mouth. It helps to wash away food particles, neutralize acid and prevent cavities and bad breath. Less saliva = more chance of difficulties. On the other hand, some women report more saliva than usual, but this is less common.
Read more: 5 tips to prevent stained teeth and lighten your smile
So what can you do?
The use of contraception means increasing your oral health practices. Like: How:
- Brush & dental floss like a professional – Twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and daily dental floss, even if your gums feel a bit tender.
- Use a soft teeth brush – Art in your gums, hard on badge.
- Stay at the top of your dental examinations – Every six months are ideal. Let your dentist know whether you have started or changed the contraception.
- Drink a lot of water – It helps with dry mouth and keeps things fresh.
- Consider a calcium and vitamin D. Supp-Diese support healthy bones and can be particularly useful if you apply a long-term hormonal method.
But … not all birth control are the same
Pills with a higher dose or older generation are more likely to cause gum problems than newer, low -dose versions. The same applies to injection values associated with inflammation and in some cases reduces the bone density.
If you are susceptible to gum problems or just want to be on the safe side, talk to your doctor about options with a lower effect, such as a copper-iUP that does not contain any hormones at all.
Read more: The surprising way of how your menstrual cycle affects your smile
Your birth control should support your life and health – do not work against it. By being aware of how hormonal contraception can affect your teeth and gums, you can make more intelligent, holistic decisions for your body.
By Dr. Ockert Bekker, founder and dentist at Bekker Dental & Aesthetics
About Dr. Bekker
Founder and dentist at Bekker Dental & Aesthetics
Dr. Ockert Bekker is a very accomplished dentist who is known for his passion and commitment to excellent benefits in patient care and advanced dentistry. He holds a BCHD from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and several postgraduate diplomas in endodontic and aesthetic dentistry. His striving for continuous learning caused him to complete an implant scholarship at New York University (NYU) and an orthodontic Aligner scholarship, which further improves its ability to offer the latest tooth solutions.
Dr. Bekker is proud to stay at the head of modern dentistry and to pursue a holistic approach to dental care that combines technical expertise with a patient -oriented philosophy. His practice, Bekker Dental & Aesthetics with branches in Durbanville and Paarl, is equipped with the latest technology to ensure personalized treatments that prioritize long -term oral health and aesthetic excellence.
