Taking the pill may increase gum disease

01 February 1999

Various oral contraceptives appear to have differing effects on a woman's risk of developing gum disease, according to a recent review. A number of studies suggest that sex hormones influence the progression of gum disease the number one cause of tooth loss. At least one found that levels of gum disease causing bacteria in a woman's mouth may increase after she begins using the Pill (Contraception, 1998; 57: 381-4).

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