Publication:

Comparative evaluation of salivary pH, gingival status and dental caries among menstrual and post-menopausal women in Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu: a cross-sectional study

Background Hormonal fluctuations during different life stages in women can influence oral health, particularly salivary pH, gingival status, and dental caries susceptibility. Aim was to compare salivary pH, gingival status, and dental caries experience among menstrual and post-menopausal women in the Chengalpattu district.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 women, divided into two groups: menstrual women (n=40) and post-menopausal women (n=40). Salivary pH was measured using pH indicator strips. Gingival status was assessed using the Loe and Silness Gingival Index (1963), and dental caries experience was recorded using the DMFT index (1938). Data were analyzed using SPSS software.

Results The mean salivary pH was significantly lower in post-menopausal women (5.91±0.81) compared to menstrual women (6.46±0.98) (p<0.05). The mean DMFT score was significantly higher among post-menopausal women (10.23±5.97) than menstrual women (4.33±3.73) (p=0.000). No significant difference was noted in gingival index scores between the groups (p=0.8).

Conclusions Post-menopausal women exhibited lower salivary pH and higher dental caries experience, suggesting that hormonal decline during menopause may adversely affect oral health. However, gingival health remained comparable between the two groups. Regular preventive dental care is essential, especially for women undergoing menopausal transition.