Copyright New York Post
There are a couple pretty major anatomical differences between males and females — but who knew matters of our dental health were different, too? Last week, TikTokker Hannah (@not_hannah_06) went viral with an alarming video in which she proclaimed that most toothpastes are formulated for men’s mouths — but because women’s mouths are more acidic, they should be using different toothpaste. While that’s not entirely accurate, it’s not really that far off. As one dentist told The Post, men’s and women’s mouths are different, and we may want to consider that when it comes to caring for our pearly whites. On average, women’s saliva tends to be a bit more acidic than men’s. “The difference is partly due to hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, which can temporarily lower pH levels,” Dr. Anjali Rajpal, a cosmetic dentist and founder of Beverly Hills Dental Arts, told The Post. She explained that elevated acid levels make tooth enamel more vulnerable to erosion and cavities. “That is why women may be more prone to sensitivity or enamel wear over time,” she said. Poor oral hygiene, acidic foods and drinks, excessive sugar consumption, aging, genetics and conditions such as dry mouth, gastroesophageal reflux disease and teeth grinding can all contribute to enamel erosion, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, pain and even tooth loss. According to Rajpal, all genders can use the similar toothpaste — but women may benefit from extra enamel protection and gum support. “A remineralizing toothpaste and a hydrating mouth rinse can be great options,” she said. “During pregnancy or menopause, added attention to gum health and hydration becomes especially important. Ultimately, the best care routine depends on your saliva pH, enamel sensitivity, and hormonal stage.” The acid-curious can test the pH of their saliva using test strips available for purchase online. A healthy oral pH falls around 6.5 to 7.5, with lower numbers indicating higher acidity. “Signs of acidic saliva include frequent sensitivity, thinning of the enamel, or a dry mouth feeling, even with normal hydration,” she said. If you have acidic saliva, she added, you can restore balance by incorporating products that neutralize oral pH and strengthen enamel. “Look for toothpaste with hydroxyapatite, fluoride, or calcium phosphates to help remineralize enamel,” she advised. “Avoid overly abrasive or charcoal-based products, as they can worsen enamel erosion. Rinsing with alkaline mouthwashes can also help restore balance.” Beyond pH levels, hormonal changes associated with menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause can also impact gum health, making women more susceptible to inflammation and bleeding. This inflammation can also worsen heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and other serious medical conditions. “Women also tend to experience a higher risk of dry mouth and gum sensitivity related to hormonal or medication factors,” said the doc. “Changes in bone density over time can also subtly affect the jaw structure and tooth stability. These biological differences highlight the importance of customized preventive care for women.”
