Menopause, Skin and Common Dermatoses. Part 4: Oral Disorders

The review examined the impact of menopause on oral health, noting that declining estrogen levels were linked to adverse effects on oral tissues, leading to symptoms like dry mouth, immune-mediated mucocutaneous diseases, and burning mouth syndrome (BMS). Oral lichen planus (OLP) was more common in women over 40, especially during perimenopause, and significantly impacted quality of life. Topical corticosteroids were effective for OLP, while calcineurin inhibitors were used for resistant cases. BMS affected 10-40% of perimenopausal women. The review highlighted the need for more research on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for oral symptoms and emphasized regular dental care and good oral hygiene for menopausal women. It also called for further studies on the oral microbiome during menopause.