Atlanta, GA, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Benevis, a prominent dental healthcare and orthodontics organization dedicated to serving underserved communities, will join its healthcare industry counterparts in observing World Menopause Day on October 18. This annual event aims to raise awareness about the physical changes associated with menopause and the support available for enhancing health and well-being.
Menopause marks a significant life stage for women, characterized by the cessation of reproductive hormone production by the ovaries, leading to the end of menstrual cycles for at least 12 consecutive months. Currently, approximately 75 million women in the United States are experiencing perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause, with around 6,000 women entering menopause each day.
The menopausal transition can have varying physical effects on women, notably impacting oral health due to hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen levels. This decrease can lead to reduced saliva production, resulting in dry mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids and clearing away food particles, thus protecting teeth from decay and preventing gum infections.
Moreover, gum health and bone density can be adversely affected during this transition. Hormonal fluctuations may render gums more sensitive and susceptible to recession and inflammation, increasing the likelihood of gum disease. Symptoms such as swollen, red, or bleeding gums can occur and may progress to more severe conditions if not properly managed. Post-menopause, women face a heightened risk of osteoporosis, which can impact the bones that support the teeth and potentially lead to tooth loss.
Benevis is committed to its mission of improving patients’ lives by transforming dental health care in the United States. This commitment includes educating female patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices during menopause. The organization promotes regular dental check-ups and proper hygiene routines to ensure the health of their teeth and gums. Additionally, Benevis provides a range of oral health resources designed to educate patients on the significance of self-care and long-term dental health.
“Approximately 1.3 million women, typically between the ages of 45 and 55, experience menopause each year and face the risk of poor oral health due to declining estrogen levels and hormonal fluctuations,” said Dr. Jane Whang, Regional Dental Director of Clinical at Benevis. “At Benevis, we are dedicated to caring for children and their families, including many women undergoing this life change. We encourage all our patients to prioritize their oral health, which includes maintaining daily dental routines and attending regular check-ups. It’s especially crucial for women experiencing dry mouth during menopause to take extra care, as this condition increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.”
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