Breaking the Silence: Menopause and Its Overlooked Impact on Oral Health

For decades, menopause has been surrounded by silence, with many women reluctant to discuss the physical and emotional changes that accompany it. Now, as more women openly share their experiences, dentistry is being urged to recognize the overlooked role menopause plays in oral health. A recent event in Etobicoke, Menopause Unveiled, brought this issue to the forefront, encouraging dental professionals to expand their understanding and adapt their care.

🔍 Why Menopause Matters in Dentistry

The hormonal shifts that occur during menopause — particularly the decline in estrogen and progesterone — can have a profound impact on the mouth. Women may experience symptoms such as dry mouth (xerostomia), burning mouth syndrome, changes in taste, increased tooth sensitivity, greater vulnerability to periodontal disease, and even reduced bone density in the jaw.

Some patients report a persistent burning sensation, while others struggle with cavities that appear despite no changes in their daily oral hygiene. These issues are not just inconvenient; they can compromise both oral and systemic health, affecting quality of life and confidence.

👩‍⚕️ Dentistry’s Knowledge Gap

According to Dr. John Viviano, one of the speakers at Menopause Unveiled, menopause is rarely addressed in dental curricula — or even in medical and gynecological training. This leaves many dental teams unprepared to recognize or manage the oral manifestations of menopause.

Viviano explained that declining hormone levels can affect the metabolic activity of jawbone tissue, potentially influencing implant stability and periodontal outcomes. Sleep disruptions and airway issues, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, are also common in menopausal women and can indirectly impact their oral and overall health.

💬 Listening to Patients’ Experiences

Jennifer Turner, RDH, stressed the importance of communication and empathy. She encouraged dental professionals to ask questions about symptoms such as hot flashes and dry mouth while reviewing medical histories. “The key is to listen,” Turner said. “Give patients space to share their stories without judgment or rushing.”

Her advice underscores the value of patient-centered care — an approach that not only identifies clinical problems but also acknowledges the lived experiences of women navigating this transitional stage of life.

📊 Awareness Still Lacking

Despite growing conversations, awareness remains low. A 2023 report from Delta Dental found that 84% of women over the age of 50 were unaware that their oral health symptoms could be linked to menopause. This knowledge gap means countless women continue to suffer without proper support from their dental providers.

🌍 Toward a More Inclusive Dental Practice

As stigma around menopause continues to fade, the dental profession faces an opportunity — and responsibility — to respond. By integrating menopause education into dental training, acknowledging the hormonal factors influencing oral health, and fostering open dialogue with patients, dentistry can play a pivotal role in improving women’s overall well-being.

The call is clear: menopause should no longer be treated as a hidden subject. Recognizing its impact on oral health is an essential step toward more comprehensive, inclusive, and compassionate dental care.

Original Article:

More women break menopause taboos — and why dentistry must pay attention.

By Dina Al-Shibeeb, Oral Health Group, September 18, 2025.