Attn. Austin Women: Watch Out for the Risk of Tooth Loss
Dentistry and tooth loss don’t go hand in hand unless you being evaluated for a dental implant, bridge or dentures. What is widely known is that women tend to have better oral health than men. Women may be more likely to brush teeth twice daily for two minutes each session.  Women may be more likely to floss each day to remove debris on and between their teeth. Women may be more likely to visit their dentist for additional professional tooth cleanings when they notice excessive plaque build-up.
What is not widely known is that recent study results suggest that women are 90% more likely to lose a tooth loss following menopause if other risk factors are present, such as, diabetes or smoking. This information is derived from study results published in the Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology (2) involving over 1000 women. Study results demonstrated that one out of every four post-menopausal women are likely to lose a tooth over a five year time period.
There have been several similar studies on the topic in the past. Each study has focused on unique factors, such as, the link between tooth loss and oestrogen deficiency. For example, a U.S. based study showed the likelihood of tooth loss at 28% over a five year period in post-menopausal women. Regardless, the risk of tooth loss increases after menopause. So, lifestyle habits and medical conditions that are suggestive of playing a role in tooth loss are just as important to keep in check.  For example physicians recommend that people visit their office for specific tests at different ages in order to identify their risk for disease. In this way, physicians may have the opportunity to develop a preventative treatment plan to reduce the risk of a medical condition, which in fact may also be linked to tooth loss. In the end, it’s important to visit your dentist for semi-annual check ups. It’s also important to visit your physician for annual check-ups.
If you are interested in general dentistry or cosmetic dentistry, contact Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas cosmetic dentist, for a consultation at 512-380-1300.