New Study: Link Between Postmenopausal Women, Smoking, and Tooth Loss

This new study might shock you. We all know that smoking has long been associated with tooth loss, but a recent study has revealed that postmenopausal women who have smoked are at a considerably higher risk of losing their teeth than women who do not smoke.

Menopause and Oral Health

It doesn’t help that postmenopausal women already face more of a challenge in maintaining sound oral health than their male counterparts. One of the co-authors of the study stated, “Regardless of having better oral health practices, such as brushing and flossing, and visiting the dentist more frequently, postmenopausal women in general tend to experience more tooth loss than men of the same age.”

Why is this the case? Menopausal or postmenopausal women experience changes in their mouths due to factors including fluctuating hormone levels or new medications taken. The results can include a chronically dry mouth and periodontal disease.

The Link Between Smoking and Tooth Loss

Reports of overall tooth loss among heavy smokes (one pack of cigarettes a day for 26 years) was nearly double when compared to women who had not smoked, and are more than six times as likely to experience tooth loss due to periodontal disease.

After reviewing the results of the study, Xiaodan Mai shared, “Tooth loss due to periodontal disease is a prevalent condition among postmenopausal women that severely impacts their dietary intake, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.” She then added, “Women now have yet another, very tangible reason for quitting smoking.”

We encourage you to commit to giving tobacco the boot! We offer a variety of modern dental solutions to resolve the damage your teeth and gums sustained by smoking, and to help you achieve a revitalized, healthy-looking smile to call your own. Please contact us today to learn more about our services, which are performed by the top dentist in Elgin, Dr. Lodding.

Do you think women are more concerned about the appearance of their smiles than men are?