(by Ann-Marie, DePalma, CDA, RDH, MEd)

There are approximately 172 million women in the United States, representing half of the total population. Although awareness of women’s health has increased in recent years, numerous issues unique to women remain underrecognized. Dental healthcare providers frequently conduct only brief reviews of medical histories due to time constraints, therefore may not be familiar with these underrecognized conditions. However, a comprehensive understanding of women’s health and meticulous examination of medical histories can enhance patient outcomes and elevate the quality of dental care.

Dental professionals have access to various assessment tools that facilitate optimal data collection and improve insight into patients’ systemic and oral health. Technologies incorporating artificial intelligence, combined with clinical diagnostic expertise, are essential for thorough patient evaluation, particularly when faced with limited clinical time or unrecognized conditions.

Oral inflammation is a significant concern among dental practitioners. The biofilm associated with periodontal disease is a known contributor to chronic inflammation, which can result in systemic health complications beyond oral structures. The works of Dr Bradley Bale and Amy Doneen have illuminated the role of inflammation in numerous disease processes. During key phases in a woman’s life—such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause—inflammatory processes can trigger complex physiological cascades, sometimes culminating in autoimmune conditions. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system generates antibodies that attack healthy cells. Common autoimmune disorders may affect the skin, gastrointestinal tract, or nervous system. Due to hormonal influences, women exhibit a higher prevalence of autoimmune conditions compared to men. In one survey when compared to men, women exhibit a rate of 10 to 1 for certain types of autoimmunity.

Dental professionals, both clinical and administrative, benefit from understanding patients’ medical histories, health conditions, and medications to deliver comprehensive care. However, some patient conditions, such as estrogen’s impact on the temporomandibular joint or movement disorders affecting home care and mobility, may be unfamiliar to us, but yet are areas that concern patients. Having a brief understanding of some of these conditions enables the dental team to provide optimum care.

As a result of experiencing underrecognized autoimmune conditions, I developed a continuing education program on women’s hidden health issues and their impact on dental care. By understanding these factors and related medications, dental teams can better support patient outcomes. Education is at the center of dental professionals’ care and understanding patient’s overall systemic health can provide optimum care and support for half of your patient population.

Visit my Bureau Listing for information about Under the Radar Women’s Health Conditions or other programs.

Written by Ann-Marie Depalma, CDA, RDH, MEd