Oral Health Care Among Women in Perimenopause or Menopause

Summary

The article highlights the increased risk of oral health issues among perimenopausal and menopausal women due to hormonal changes, emphasizing the need for greater awareness, better education, and improved healthcare provider guidance to address unmet oral health needs (Thomas et al., 2025).

FemTalkAsia Takeaways

• Increased Oral Health Risks: Women undergoing perimenopause or menopause are more susceptible to oral health issues, such as burning sensations, dry mouth, taste alterations, gum inflammation, jawbone osteoporosis, and increased tooth decay, all of which can significantly affect their quality of life.
• Limited Awareness: There is a general lack of knowledge among these women regarding the impact of menopause on oral health, leading to inadequate oral hygiene practices and infrequent dental visits.
• Insufficient Guidance from Healthcare Providers: Healthcare professionals often do not provide adequate information or emphasize the importance of maintaining oral health during menopause, resulting in unmet oral health needs.
• Barriers to Dental Care: Challenges such as time constraints, low prioritization of oral health, and safety concerns hinder women in menopause from seeking dental care.
• Need for Comprehensive Guidelines: There is a pressing need for specific guidelines and supportive strategies to assist healthcare providers in promoting oral health among women in perimenopause or menopause, ensuring comprehensive care during this transitional period.