Women experience specific physiological changes after menopause that affect dental implant planning: oestrogen-related bone density reduction, increased osteoporosis risk, and frequent use of hormone replacement therapy or osteoporosis medications. WeCare's screening protocol for women over 50 addresses these factors directly.
Bone Density Considerations
After menopause, women experience an average 1-2% annual bone mineral density loss for the first 5-10 years. This affects the alveolar (jaw) bone like any other bone. Practical implications for implants:
- Bone density check before surgery (DEXA scan recommended within 12 months)
- Implant brand selection — Straumann SLActive® or Nobel Biocare TiUltra® preferred for accelerated integration in lower-density bone
- Wider-diameter implants preferred where space allows, distributing load over more bone-implant contact area
- Extended healing time — 4 months instead of 3 for cases with reduced bone density
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Women on HRT generally have better implant outcomes than women not on HRT — oestrogen supports bone density. No protocol modifications needed for HRT patients.
Osteoporosis Medications
Many postmenopausal women take bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Boniva), Prolia (denosumab), or other bone-active medications. See our separate guide on bisphosphonate patients for specific protocols. Prolia patients require similar screening to bisphosphonate patients.
Other Considerations
Calcium and Vitamin D status — Recommended optimisation before surgery. Vitamin D deficiency is common in older women and affects bone healing. Quick blood test at home dentist or pharmacy.
Thyroid function — Hypothyroidism (common in older women) affects bone metabolism and surgical recovery. Should be controlled before surgery.
Medications affecting bleeding — Low-dose aspirin commonly prescribed for cardiovascular prevention. Generally continued through surgery.
What to Send Us
WhatsApp +90 551 086 83 68 with:
- Recent panoramic X-ray (OPG)
- DEXA scan if available (within 12 months)
- Full medications list (especially HRT, osteoporosis meds, blood thinners)
- Recent blood work (within 6 months) — calcium, vitamin D, TSH if available
- Years since menopause
Within 24 hours we send a personalised treatment plan with any modifications for postmenopausal protocol.
