Gums Reaction During Menstruation

Gums Reaction During Menstruation

Although women tend to maintain better dental health practices than guys do,women are more susceptible to oral health problems due to the hormonal fluctuations. Hormones affect the blood supply to the gum tissue, and the body’s response to plaque accomulation..

Before a period starts, progesterone levels are high,resulting in decrease the level of any existing inflamation. Progesterone also blocks collagen repair, which is rsponsibale for gum healing .

Estrogen levels peak and fall twice during each cycle. While at a high level, estrogen keeps the mucous membranes moist and flexible. But during low levels, the mouth tissue may become dry and the natural PH of the mouth disturbed, making the gums more suseptible to infection causing gingivitis.

What’s going on?

Due to the hormonal changes (particularly the increase in progesterone) that occur during the menstrual cycle, some women experience oral changes that can include redness, swollen gums, swollen salivary glands, development of canker sores, bleeding gums, slight burning sensation and general pain and discomfort in the gums. All this usually occurs a day or two before the start of the period and clears up shortly after the period has started.

My advice:

Although it’s always important to maintain healthy oral habits but good oral hygiene is important in reducing inflammation. More frequent cleanings minimum twice daily . Over-the-counter systemic pain relievers (like ibuprofen) may help, but in some cases women should see their dentist or medical doctor for medications.

I preferably the week after the period in case of scheduling a cleaning with youre dentist,actually there’s no bad time or good time but as a result of puffy gums it tends to be extra sensitive and the cleaning could feel more painful after period ends