Injectable Progesterone Contraceptives Causing Poor Periodontal Health?

Researched recently posted in the Journal of Periodontology has shown a possible link between poor periodontal health in women and injectable progesterone contraceptives. The study, which focused mainly on depotmedroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), a common injectable contraceptive, found that users were more likely to show indicators of poor periodontal health. Commonly these women were diagnosed with periodontitis or gingivitis. The findings were compared to women who had never injected or taken DMPA, and such subjects were found to have a lower risk of periodontal health problems.

DMPA has become a very popular contraceptive for women because it is a strictly progestin-based injectable that is long-lasting. Since the shots only need to be administered every three months, using DMPA is convenient and easy for many women; however, this convenience may be compromising their periodontal health.

Contraceptives and the Health of your Teeth

The study, which included premenopausal women between the ages of 15-44 were surveyed on their DMPA usage. Some women had noted that they took DMPA, while others had never taken DMPA at all. All participants were given a thorough dental examination that analyzed periodontal pocket assessment, the presence of gingival bleeding, and clinical attachment loss.

After taking race, age, education, smoking status, and poverty income level into consideration, researchers determined that women who had or were currently using DMPA were at a higher risk of gingival bleeding, CA loss, and an increased amount of periodontal pockets. Women currently taking DMPA were at a higher risk of gingivitis, while past users were most likely to suffer from periodontitis.

Since hormones play a part in a woman’s periodontal health, it’s not unsurprising that
DMPA can negatively impact the gums and teeth. This means that women taking DMPA should definitely pay close attention to their oral health.

One of the best ways to keep tabs on your periodontal health is to schedule general check-ups and teeth cleanings with your dentist. Dr. Siegel works with both females and males to ensure that their smile, gums and jaw remain at healthy levels. To schedule an appointment, call or email us today.