The Silent Shift of Menopause: The Intersection between Salivary Glands, Oral Cavity Status, and Cardiovascular Health.

BACKGROUND

Menopause represents a major biological transition in a woman's life, defined by the cessation of ovarian function and a marked decline in estrogen levels. Although its systemic consequences, including osteoporosis and increased cardiovascular risk, are well established, its impact on oral health remains insufficiently recognized by both medical and dental professionals.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the influence of menopause on women's oral health, emphasizing key pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and interdisciplinary strategies for prevention and management.

METHODS

A narrative review was conducted using articles retrieved from the PubMed database published between 2000 and 2025. The following keywords were used: "menopause," "oral health," "hormonal changes," "cardiovascular disease," "xerostomia," "salivary glands," "periodontitis," and "postmenopausal women."

RESULTS

Hormonal changes during menopause are associated with a range of oral manifestations, including xerostomia, burning mouth syndrome, periodontal disease, and taste alterations. Estrogen deficiency appears to contribute to reduced salivary flow, mucosal atrophy, and an increased inflammatory response in periodontal tissues. Emerging evidence also suggests an association between oral health during menopause and cardiovascular disease, among other systemic conditions. However, important knowledge gaps persist regarding clinical management and interdisciplinary care for menopausal women.

CONCLUSION

Oral health during menopause reflects a complex interplay of hormonal, systemic, and behavioral factors. Because of increasing life expectancy worldwide, oral health education and research programs should prioritize this topic. Strengthening awareness and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration are essential to improving health outcomes in midlife women.