Why women are more prone to cavities? A comprehensive review of dental records found that women have more dental health issues than men do. This disparity is due to reproduction and fertility issues linked to female-specific hormones.
Food and societal changes have been linked to increased cavities among women. However, new research published in Current Anthropology (Oct '08) suggests that internal and external factors are to blame. Three main changes contribute to women's higher rates of cavities:
- Female sex hormone. Estrogen can significantly impact cavity formation and dietary changes.
- Saliva. Women naturally produce less saliva than men, reducing the removal of food residue. The chemical composition of saliva changes, reducing saliva's antimicrobial capacity.
- Food cravings during pregnancy. Women often crave high-energy, sweet food during the third trimester.
Women can help avoid oral condition associated with hormonal changes by maintaining a balanced diet and practicing good daily oral care...brushing at least twice daily with toothpaste containing fluoride and flossing twice a day.
