THE CONNECTION BETWEEN MENOPAUSE AND ORAL HEALTH

As we mark World Menopause Day on October 18, it’s time to shed light on a health issue affecting millions that remains largely overlooked—the impact of menopause on oral health.

According to Delta Dental’s Oral Health and Menopause Report, one-third of women over 40 note a decline in oral health as they age. Many are unaware that symptoms like dry mouth, gum disease, shifting teeth and even jawbone loss may be linked to hormonal changes during menopause. Alarmingly, many women lose at least one tooth during this life stage. These issues are not just cosmetic, they can affect nutrition, speech and overall well-being.

The report also indicates that dentists are an underutilized resource for menopausal women. Only 18% of women 40+ have discussed the impact of menopause on oral health with a dental professional. Meanwhile, 93% of women over 40 share it would be helpful to receive tailored advice on managing their oral health during menopause at dental visits. While menopause is rarely discussed in dental settings, an encouraging 83% of dentists indicate they are open to addressing its impact, revealing a significant opportunity to break the silence surrounding menopause in the dental chair.

Let’s raise awareness about this connection, create space for open conversation and ensure oral health care becomes a routine part of menopause care. Women deserve it and so do their smiles.

Nevin Mathai, DMD

Dental Director

Delta Dental of South Carolina

About Delta Dental of South Carolina

Delta Dental of South Carolina is a trade name of Delta Dental of Missouri, a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization, leading dental benefits provider and oral health philanthropist, which operates in South Carolina under that name. It provides more than 411,000 members in South Carolina with access to affordable, high-quality dental care through group plans tailored to meet the needs of organizations of all sizes, from large corporations to small businesses with two or more employees. Delta Dental also offers dental benefit plans directly to individuals and families. It also provides access to affordable, high-quality vision care through group vision benefit plans. The company proudly supports oral health initiatives, educational programs and charitable causes that help educate people about the importance of dental health and provide free dental care to those in need. It also created the South Carolina Dental Care Resource Guide to help individuals access information about low-cost and free dental care options in their area—available online at  www.DeltaDentalSC.com/ResourceGuide. To learn more about the company, visit www.DeltaDentalSC.com.