The menstrual cycle is an inevitable that impacts women every month. The cycle, also referred to as a period, can come with a number of changes. These are both physical and emotional. From cramps and headaches to mood changes and lowered libido, a period can truly impact your daily life. It can also impact other areas of your health, including your oral health. As your body experiences the hormonal changes that come with your period, it can also result in gum sensitivity to different taste sensations. You may wonder, can oral surgery affect your period? Below, you will find more information on the connection between oral surgery and your period.
Can oral surgery affect your period?
Your period has an impact on your oral health. This includes things like gum sensitivity, bad breath, and swollen or bleeding gums. Alternatively, you may wonder about the impact oral surgery can have on your period. In general, oral surgery does not directly impact your period. However, there are a few indirect ways your period may be impacted. Consider the following if you have oral surgery during your period.
High Stress:
Many people experience dental anxiety. This can be exacerbated if you have to get oral surgery. Stress can impact your hormones, which can ultimately impact your period. With that, it’s possible that oral surgery can lead to stress-related hormonal changes that result in changes in your period. If you notice that stress impacts your period, talk with your dentist about when to schedule your oral surgery around your cycle. This can help reduce the impact oral surgery will have on your period.
Diet:
A balanced diet that is filled with nutritious foods can ensure your hormones stay balanced. This is key before, during, and after your period. A tooth extraction or other oral surgery may disrupt your diet. Oftentimes, you have to focus on a liquid or soft diet to accommodate any pain during the healing process. This has the potential to impact your hormone levels, which can then impact your period. While this is rare, consider the timing of your oral surgery to ensure your period is not disrupted.
Medication:
Depending on the type of oral surgery, you may be prescribed pain medication. Pain medication can potentially disrupt your hormones. This involves mostly prescribed medications as over-the-counter options are not as likely to. If you are prescribed pain medication after your procedure, you may notice changes in your period if there are any medication-related hormonal disruptions.
Hormonal Changes Associated With Oral Health
Hormonal changes that occur during your period can have an impact on your oral health.
Bad Breath:
Hormonal changes can impact your breath. Pay close attention to your oral care routine during your period. This includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush. In addition, floss at least once a day. If possible, add in a mouthwash to address your bad breath during your period.
Swollen Gums:
The production of estrogen and progesterone increases before your period. This can lead to red and swollen gums. This can be addressed by caring for your oral health and rinsing with a salt-water solution. If the issue persists, consider over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication for relief.
Bleeding Gums:
Inflamed gums can result in bleeding. This is due to the increase in hormones around your period. The hormones play a role in regulating blood flow to various parts of your body, including your gums. Be gentle when you brush if you notice bleeding, and maintain your oral care routine. If the issue persists, consult with a dental professional right away.
