Article by:
Amelia Grant
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, the soft tissue that surrounds your teeth. Gingivitis is a type of early-stage gum disease caused by an excess of plaque on your teeth. Poor oral hygiene, a family history of gingivitis, smoking, and diabetes are all risk factors for gingivitis.
Menstruation gingivitis is a gum inflammation that isn't always caused by poor oral hygiene. It is a form of gingivitis caused by female sex hormones during the menstrual cycle.
What Causes Menstruation Gingivitis?
Hormonal changes link the menstrual cycle and gum disease. The surge in estrogen and progesterone hormones that occurs just before a period can increase blood flow to the gums, making them more susceptible to plaque and bacteria.
When these hormonal changes occur, even small amounts of plaque can irritate the gums. As a result, the gums become inflamed, red, and swollen. They may also bleed more frequently, particularly when brushing and flossing their teeth.
These hormonal changes, however, are brief and transient. The luteal phase, which occurs after ovulation and 14 days before menstruation, is when estrogen and progesterone levels rise during the menstrual cycle. These hormone levels plummet as menstruation begins. Menstrual gingivitis symptoms typically peak and subside in the same pattern.
Menstruation Gingivitis Symptoms
The symptoms of menstruation gingivitis are the same as those of other types of gingivitis. You may notice bright red, swollen gums as early as two weeks before your period. Your gums may bleed as well. Gingivitis is typically painless, though some people may experience gum pain.
Brushing and flossing your teeth may feel more uncomfortable during this time, but it's critical to maintain a consistent daily oral hygiene routine because it can help reduce inflammation and bleeding while also preventing more serious gum disease.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Gingivitis symptoms are usually mild and disappear after menstruation. However, you can consult with your doctor about ways to manage gingivitis.
If symptoms persist or occur after menstruation, they may indicate a more serious gum condition or gingivitis unrelated to hormones. A dentist can determine the source of your symptoms. Gingivitis can be managed and even reversed if caught early enough, avoiding further complications.
Diagnosis
A provider will examine all of the soft tissue around the teeth for signs of inflammation, such as redness and swelling when diagnosing gingivitis. Another sign of gingivitis is excessive bleeding of the gums during oral cleanings. To assess the extent of gum disease, a provider may measure the space between the teeth and gums.
Menstruation gingivitis is likely if symptoms appear only a week or two before menstruation in someone with a history of healthy gums and good oral hygiene. A provider would rule out other types of gingivitis.
How to Manage Menstruation Gingivitis
When menstruation begins, gingivitis develops, and symptoms should resolve quickly. Meanwhile, keep up your daily brushing and flossing routine. Maintaining a clean mouth can help reduce plaque and bacteria buildup, as well as prevent inflammation and infection. If your symptoms are not manageable at home or if they persist after your period, see your dentist.
How to Prevent Menstruation Gingivitis
There is no sure way to prevent menstruation gingivitis, but cleaning your gums and teeth regularly, like preventing gum disease, helps prevent plaque and bacteria buildup.
Practicing good oral hygiene on a daily basis, rather than just before your period, may help reduce symptoms and maintain healthy gums. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing after meals will help clean your mouth and reduce plaque buildup. Mouthwash rinses may be used as an extra step to remove any remaining plaque or food debris.
Having a dentist perform routine professional cleanings at least once a year, combined with an at-home oral care routine, can help reduce menstruation gingivitis in the long run.