Garden
State Woman
Watch Your Mouth Part III
For
Women Only by Dr. Allyson K. Hurley, DDS, MAGD, AAACD
There is a growing awareness of medical concerns that impact women’s
health, particularly their dental health. Due to longevity women are more
likely to take drugs that can complicate or compromise dental treatment.
In addition, women are at high risk of developing diseases such as osteoporosis,
cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and diabetes, all of which are manifested
in the mouth.
Autoimmune Diseases
Unfortunately
women suffer high rates of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid
arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Sjogren’s disease. Many of these
diseases have oral indications. Sjogren’s disease can result in the
destruction of the salivary glands, with subsequent dry mouth. Dry eyes
are also an indication of this disease.
Xerostomia
(dry mouth)
This is not a
disease but is a symptom of many diseases or conditions. Cancer therapy,
trauma to head and neck area, stress, or nutritional deficiencies are some
of the causes. Certain medications, such as diuretics, antihistamines, tranquilizers,
and blood pressure medications can cause xerostomia. The lack of saliva
can result in increased decay, oral candidiasis, difficulty in swallowing
food, and red and burning tissue. Patients can also have difficulty in speaking
for long periods of time and there can be difficulty in wearing dental appliances.
Dietary habits can be affected with resulting problems with nutrition.
It is of utmost importance that if any of these symptoms are present that women seek the attention of a dental professional. There are treatments available, which will not cure the condition, but will help the patients find relief. Topical fluoride gels, which are prescribed by your dentist, can help control decay. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol based mouth rinses may help the symptoms. Medications are also available that stimulate saliva production, as well as saliva substitutes.
Prophylactic
premedication
Osteoporosis,
which commonly affects women after menopause, can increase her risk for
vertebral and hip fractures. This sometimes results in prosthetic replacements
and due to risk of joint infections prophylactic antibiotics are usually
prescribed prior to any invasive dental treatment.
A regimen of premedication may also be prescribed for patients with heart
valve replacements, history of rheumatic fever, or heart murmurs. This is
done to reduce risk of secondary infections from dental procedures.
Stomatitis
Stomatitis is an inflammation of the mucous lining of the mouth, which can include the cheeks, tongue, lips, and roof of the mouth. It can be a red, painful condition with swelling and bleeding. There are many causes of stomatitis. It can be caused by conditions in the mouth, such as poor oral hygiene, ill-fitting dental appliances, or by conditions that affect the entire body, such as certain diseases, allergic reactions, or medications.
Treatment is based on diagnosis by a dental professional with possible interaction with medical specialists, depending on whether or not the condition was caused from systemic disease or chronic medical problems. Good oral hygiene is fundamental. Use a soft toothbrush and floss daily. Avoid sharp foods such as chips and peanuts and also avoid tobacco and alcohol while inflammation is present. Infectious causes of stomatitis can usually be managed with medication. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene and good nutrition can help prevent this condition. Problems caused by systemic disease can be minimized by closely following the advice of your health care provider.
Pregnancy
As a result of
hormonal changes pregnant women can develop several oral health problems.
The most common is swelling of the gums, often referred to as “pregnancy
gingivitis.” Pregnancy tumors, a benign but painful condition where
growths form on irritated gum tissue, are another common problem. Both conditions
can be reduced or eliminated by thorough, gentle brushing of gums, teeth
and tongue, at least twice a day, in addition to daily flossing.
Pregnant women should avoid all drugs if possible, especially during the first trimester. After birth, if the mother is nursing, certain drugs should be avoided. Aspirin, which can trigger Reyes syndrome, some antidepressants, and tetracycline, which can stain the baby’s teeth, can be excreted in breast milk. Many other medications, including those that are used to treat candida albicans can also pass to breast milk. Nursing mothers should consult with their health care provider prior to taking any medications, even non-prescription.
Tempromandibular
joint dysfunction
In the U.S. about 70% of the population has suffered from tempromandibular
joint dysfunction (TMD) at some point in their lives. Clinching and grinding
the teeth, usually while sleeping, can cause it. It manifests itself with
pain in jaw that may radiate to the ear, headaches, clicking of the joint,
and limited opening of the mouth. Occlusal splints, warm moist packs, as
well as some medications can be prescribed to improve symptoms.
For more information on women’s dental health issues or to review Part I or Part II of this series visit www.allysonhurley.com and click on “articles.”
