Using the pill can affect the gingiva and periodontium
Bonner, S.
Dental Student 56(4): 54-60; 66
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0011-877X PMID: 288653 Document Number: 444156
Research on women taking oral contraceptives indicate a higher prevalence and severity of gingivitis and periodontitis among users than among nonusers; the prevalence was almost equivalent to that seen in pregnant women. No definite research has been done yet on the types of pills which are predominantly estrogenic progestogenic. A review of available literature suggests that the female sex hormones do affect the gingival tissues of women. Although the mechanism of action is not definitely known yet, the Lindhe experiments show that hormones lower host tissue response by disturbing and disrupting other endocrine systems, especially if tissues have been previously injured. It is also not known whether it is the progesterone or estrogen which causes primary inflammatory reaction. Based on some of Lindhes' experiments and clinical reports, however, progesterone may be the major culprit. Further research should be done to distinguish between the effects of estrogenic and progestogenic oral contraceptives, and to establish the hormones' mechanism of action with respect to gingival inflammation.