Women’s Health Week: Don’t Overlook Your Smile!

Women's Health Week: Don’t Overlook Your Smile!

By Dr. Tanya Brown and Dr. Matthew Cawley
at The Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
in Chesapeake, VA

Womens Health WeekAt The Center for Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry in Chesapeake, VA, we are a Dental Practice who is proud to celebrate Women’s Health Week this May by highlighting an important — but often overlooked — aspect of women’s overall wellness: oral health.

Many people don’t realize that women experience unique changes in their dental health throughout life. Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can all increase the risk of gum disease, dry mouth, bone loss, breathing/airway changes, quality sleep, as well as other oral health concerns. That’s why Dr. Tanya Brown, Dr. Matthew Cawley, and our Professional Dental hygiene team encourage women to prioritize regular dental visits as part of their total wellness routine.

The Connection Between Women’s Health and Oral Health

Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can impact the body’s response to plaque, making women more prone to gum inflammation (gingivitis) at certain stages of life. For example:

  • During pregnancy, hormonal shifts can lead to "pregnancy gingivitis," which may cause swollen, tender gums.
  • Menopause often brings about dry mouth (Xerostomia), a higher risk of cavities and gum disease, and even changes in the airway that can lead to sleep-disordered breathing.

Estrogen is known to be an airway dilator, which is why when your estrogen levels decrease, many women experience poor sleep quality.  In addition, your airway space can decrease during menopause, so many women also unknowingly develop clenching or grinding habits (known as bruxism) as the body struggles to maintain an open airway during sleep. Unfortunately, this can result in cracked teeth, worn enamel, jaw pain, and an increased risk of dental issues over time not to mention losing the protective effect that good quality sleep has on your neurocognitive function.

Your Smile, Your Health

At The Center for Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, we believe prevention is key. During your visit, Dr. Tanya Brown, Dr. Matthew Cawley, and our Dental hygienists, Chelsea and Karen, thoroughly evaluate your gum health, screen for early signs of disease, monitor for signs of clenching and grinding, and customize your home care plan. For patients who are pregnant, approaching menopause, or managing chronic health conditions, we offer personalized guidance to keep your mouth — and your body — as healthy as possible.

Here’s how you can protect your smile and your health:

  • Stay on schedule with Preventive Professional cleanings and exams.
  • Share health updates with Dr. Tanya Brown, Dr. Matthew Cawley, and our Dental team — especially pregnancy, menopause, sleep issues, or new diagnoses.
  • Practice excellent home care: brushing, flossing, and using recommended products.
  • Ask about additional screenings like OralDNA Bacterial testing or  a TMJ/Airway evaluation if you notice symptoms like clenching or disrupted sleep.

This Women’s Health Week, celebrate yourself by taking steps toward a healthier, brighter future — starting with your smile. We’re honored to be part of your wellness journey!  Ready to prioritize your health? Call today to schedule your next visit with Dr. Tanya Brown, Dr. Matthew Cawley, and our caring Dental team in Chesapeake, Virginia.

It’s Your Time to SMILE!