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Menopause and Bleeding Gums

Tooth decay and the failure to floss may no longer be the primary worry in oral health for women experiencing, or on the verge of beginning, menopause. At this stage, women are more prone to periodontal disease. This disease attacks the gum and bone around the teeth, which results in bleeding gums.

  1. Who Gets It

    • Dentists have said they can identify a woman in her 40s and approaching menopause by the condition of her gums, according to "The Menopause Book," by Pat Wingert and Barbara Kantrowitz, 2009.
      The gums are red, tender and may bleed during a routine cleaning.

    Why They Get It

    • The bleeding is the result of the gum disease, which is caused by plaque. This sticky bacteria forms on teeth and untreated inflames the gums.
      Hormones can play a role. Declining estrogen during menopause may cause the gum tissue to shrink, opening up pockets for plaque to settle. Hormone shifts may cause less blood to reach the gums and toxins to flourish.
      Certain medications taken during menopause also result in bleeding gums.

    Who Can Help

    • A periodontist, or gum specialist, can evaluate the condition of your gums. This professional may decrease the gum pockets where bacteria hides with a minor surgical procedure. This makes it easier to brush away plaque.
      A prosthodonist is a dental sub-specialist who restores and maintains oral health when the gum disease has evolved to missing teeth and bone loss.
      A dental hygienist can recommend additional treatments and techniques for keeping harmful bacteria at bay.

    What To Do

    • Since the primary cause of bleeding gums is plaque, a stepped-up oral hygiene practice is the best defense and treatment plan. Going in for teeth cleanings every four months, instead of every six, can better manage bleeding gums.
      Dentists may also prescribe antibacterial agents such as Arestin.
      Electric toothbrushes can be more effective than conventional ones when used as directed.

    Other Causes

    • Persistent gum bleeding could have other, more serious causes or simple explanations. These include: brushing too hard, pregnancy, use of blood thinners, improper flossing, leukemia, scurvy, or a vitamin K deficiency.

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