A study published in the March Journal of the Dental Association suggests that estrogen reduces the risk of tooth loss.

The Harvard Medical School/Brigham & Women's Hospital scientists found a 24% decrease in tooth loss in estrogen users, among the 42,171 postmenopausal nurses whom they studied between 1990 and 1992. This research builds on several prior studies that show use of estrogen protects against bone loss and osteoporosis. The study also confirms the previous finding that estrogen users had a 36% decrease in the risk of tooth loss compared with nonusers.

The researchers determined that estrogen users, when controlled for dental health, smoking, weight, age at menopause and other variables had a lower risk of tooth loss than nonusers.

Of the 42,171 women who responded to the survey, 7,353 reported they had loss one or more teeth between 1990 and 1992. The remainder reported no tooth loss during that period. (Source: ADA OnLine)