PMS and oral health

How menstrual cycle hormones affect gums, breath, and oral wellness—what every woman should know

- Dr. Karishma Vijan

While most women anticipate physical and emotional changes during their menstrual cycle, very few are aware that hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact oral health.

Bleeding gums, mouth ulcers, or a sudden onset of bad breath in the days leading up to menstruation are often dismissed as minor inconveniences or unrelated events. However, these symptoms may be part of a clinically recognized phenomenon: hormonal gingivitis.

Hormonal influence

The soft tissues of the oral cavity—including the gums, tongue, and salivary glands—are highly responsive to estrogen and progesterone. During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, these hormones increase vascular permeability and inflammatory response in the gingival tissues. As a result, women may experience:

• Swollen, tender gums

• Gum bleeding during brushing or flossing

• Oral ulcers or canker sores

• Altered taste or halitosis (bad breath)