Dental visits can be a source of anxiety for many women, and few realize how closely oral health is linked to hormonal changes during menopause and pregnancy. According to a 2023 Delta Dental Insurance Company (Delta Dental) survey, 84% of women over 50 were unaware that menopause could affect their dental health.
Pregnancy can increase the risk of gum inflammation, bleeding, and, in some cases, pregnancy-related gum growths. Menopause brings its own oral health challenges, sometimes referred to as “menopause mouth,” including dry mouth, burning tongue, tooth sensitivity, and heightened risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
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Delta Dental has seen progress in recent years. “We’re seeing more women over 40 openly discuss what they’re experiencing with their dentist,” said Sarah Chavarria, the first female CEO in the organization’s 70-year history.
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Chavarria noted a personal experience that highlighted the need for awareness. After mentioning her menopause status to her dentist, she realized the importance of integrating menopause into routine healthcare discussions. She subsequently advocated within Delta Dental to bring attention to menopause’s connection to oral health.
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Today, 75% of dentists report feeling comfortable discussing menopause with patients, according to Delta Dental’s latest survey. Chavarria advises patients who may feel uneasy bringing it up in person to email their dentist ahead of appointments. Delta Dental even provides an email template to help start the conversation. Patients can also ask about dental products or oral hygiene adjustments to manage menopause-related symptoms.
Under Chavarria’s leadership, Delta Dental has expanded women-focused benefits through the Next Stage™ Women’s Health program. Eligible members receive additional dental cleanings and exams during pregnancy or menopause to address hormone-related oral health risks.
“These extra visits are part of preventive care,” Chavarria said. “They allow dentists to understand changes patients experience, improving overall health outcomes.” Survey results show more than 80% of women over 40 would be more likely to schedule additional cleanings if covered by insurance, and two-thirds would discuss menopause with their dentist if supported by targeted benefits.
Delta Dental has also partnered with the virtual women’s health platform Midi Health to connect women with menopause-trained clinicians, especially in areas with limited access to OBGYNs. Additionally, a collaboration with Embr Labs provides discounts on the Embr Wave wearable device, which helps alleviate temperature-related symptoms of menopause.
Chavarria emphasizes that dental visits can serve as preventive healthcare opportunities. With 27 million Americans not seeing their primary care physician regularly—but visiting the dentist twice a year—dentists can help identify broader health concerns. Delta Dental of California partners with Harmony Whole Person Oral Healthcare in Oakland to offer whole-person screenings for conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep disorders.
“One patient discovered high blood pressure during a dental visit and received urgent care, potentially saving her life,” Chavarria said.
Innovations like these underscore the growing role of dental insurance in promoting holistic health and Delta Dental’s commitment to advancing women’s oral and overall well-being.