Delta Dental Insurance Company's second Oral Health and Menopause Survey reveals women 40+ aren't aware of the impact menopause has on their oral health despite experiencing symptoms, but want to learn about menopause from their providers, marking an opportunity for dentists to help patients. SAN FRANCISCO , Sept. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- More than a third (35%) of women aged 40 and over say they've experienced a decline in their overall oral health as they age, unaware that some of the oral health symptoms commonly associated with aging could be related to menopause, according to Delta Dental Insurance Company's 2024 Oral Health and Menopause Report .
The survey highlights a critical oversight in women's healthcare: many are missing out on a valuable resource for managing menopause symptoms and treatment options—their dentists. Only 18% of women 40+ have discussed the impact of menopause on oral health with a dental professional. At the same time, an overwhelming 93% of women 40+ share it would be helpful to receive tailored advice on managing their oral health during menopause at their dental visits.
Despite this lack of discussion, 83% of dentists indicate they are open to addressing the impact of menopause, revealing a significant opportunity to break the silence surrounding menopause in the dental chair. "Our report highlights a critical intersection between menopause and oral health," said Sarah Chavarria , CEO and President of Delta Dental Insurance Company . "We're e.