Menopause brings many changes to a woman’s body, and oral health is no exception. Hormonal fluctuations during this time can increase the risk of gum disease, dry mouth, and other dental issues. At Dentistry on George, our team of experienced professionals in Brisbane is here to guide you through these changes and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.

How Menopause Affects Your Teeth and Gums

During menopause, decreased estrogen levels can impact oral tissues, saliva production, and bone density. Some common effects include:

• Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis): Hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive, inflamed, or prone to infection.

• Dry mouth (xerostomia): Reduced saliva increases the risk of tooth decay, bad breath, and oral discomfort.

• Tooth sensitivity: Changes in gum and bone support can make teeth more sensitive to hot or cold foods.

• Bone loss and jaw health: Menopause can accelerate bone density loss, which may affect the jaw and support for teeth.

Understanding these risks is the first step in maintaining your oral health during this stage of life.

What is MRONJ?

Medication Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) is a rare but serious condition which can occur when exposed bone does not heal properly in a person taking certain medications. One of these classes of medications are  known as bisphosphates, which are commonly prescribed for osteoporosis. These include drugs such as alendronate (Fosamaz), risendronate (Actonel), Ibandronate (Boniva) and zolendronic acid (Reclast). Another osteoporosis medication that can cause MRONJ is denosumab (Prolia).

These drugs help with osteoporosis as they prevent the bone removing cells from removing bone, therefore increasing bone density. Our bone is constantly remodeling itself – laying down new bone, and resorbing old bone (a bit like our skin). They increase the bone density, in an attempt to counteract the loss of bone density that occurs after menopause.

However, when a tooth is removed, it is removed from the bone. In normal healing, the bone cells will lay down new bone, and resorb the old bone. This is how the socket heals. If this process is interrupted due to these osteoporosis medications, we can end up with sockets that do not heal – MRONJ.

MRONJ can sometimes occur spontaneously, if for example there is trauma to the gum and the bone underneath is exposed – this can happen with ill-fitting dentures, for example.

How to prevent complications

Prevention is always better than cure. It’s ideal to have a full dental examination before starting on these osteoporosis medications. This way, any teeth that may be required to be extracted in the next few years or so, can be removed before starting on the medication. In addition, any teeth which could cause problems can be filled or crowned, to try and prevent them needing to be removed.

In addition, your dentist can work with instigating a preventive programme with you, as more than ever, once on these drugs, it’s important to not need any teeth removed! This may include things like more regular teeth cleanings, or starting on specialised toothpaste formulations.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health During Menopause

• 1. Maintain Regular Dental Check-Ups

  Visiting your Brisbane CBD dentist every six months is crucial. Regular check-ups help detect early signs of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues before they become serious.

  2. Focus on Gentle but Thorough Oral Hygiene

  • Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

  • Floss daily to remove plaque and prevent gum inflammation.

  • Consider an antibacterial mouth rinse if recommended by your dentist.

  3. Stay Hydrated and Combat Dry Mouth

  Drinking water regularly, using saliva substitutes, or chewing sugar-free gum can help reduce dry mouth symptoms and protect against tooth decay.

  4. Maintain a Balanced Diet

  A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein supports both oral and bone health. Limiting sugary foods and acidic drinks helps prevent cavities and enamel erosion.

  5. Discuss Dental Options with Your Dentist

  If menopause-related changes affect your smile, your dentist in Brisbane CBD can discuss treatments to maintain comfort and aesthetics. Options may include:

  • Professional cleaning and periodontal care

  • Tooth restoration for sensitive or worn teeth

  • Cosmetic solutions like veneers or whitening if desired

Why Choose Dentistry on George in Brisbane

At Dentistry on George, we understand the unique oral health challenges women face during menopause. Our gentle, patient-focused approach ensures you receive care that is both effective and comfortable. From preventive care to cosmetic dental treatments, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile through every stage of life.

Book Your Appointment Today

Don’t let menopause impact your oral health. Contact Dentistry on George, your trusted Brisbane dentist, to schedule a check-up or discuss personalized care for your smile.