Menstrual Gingivitis: Case Study
Menstrual gingivitis is a condition experienced by some women resulting in increased inflammation and gum sensitivity during their menstrual cycle. It typically occurs in the days leading up to menstruation and resolves shortly after menstruation begins. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels are believed to play a role in this phenomenon. These hormonal changes can affect the body's interaction with bacteria in the mouth, leading to increased inflammation of the gums – likely accompanied by (and perhaps mediated by) concurrent microbial shifts.
Date of Protocol: 4/7/24-5/07/24
Patient Data: Female, 33 years old
Case History:
The research participant reported menstrual gingivitis symptoms with onset approximately six months-one year before starting the dental protocol. Every month, one week before onset of her period, she experienced tender, inflamed gums that would bleed with flossing. Celtic sea salt rinses reduced but never fully alleviated symptoms.
Protocol:
- Dentalcidin toothpaste: Brush with a pea-sized amount twice daily for 2 minutes.
- Dentalcidin LS oral rinse: 2 pumps in the mouth, swish for 2 minutes and spit out. Repeat twice a day. Wait 20 minutes before eating or drinking after using the oral rinse.
- Flossing: Continue current regimen-do not change the frequency of flossing before or during the study.
Outcome:
Oral assessment showed a reduction in gingival inflammation, plaque and tartar after four weeks on the protocol. After 10 weeks on the protocol, the patient reported fresher breath, that her teeth felt cleaner in the morning, no bleeding with flossing and her menstrual gingivitis had fully resolved.