Is Dental Care More Important for Men Than for Women?
All things equal, men don’t need more dental care than women. However, according to many studies, men are less likely to take care of their physical health – and that includes oral health. Other studies have shown that good oral health leads to longer lives. When you then consider that men are less likely than women to get regular dental checkups, you can see that dental care may be more important for men than women.
Men and oral health: Startling statistics
According to one study, men brush their teeth an average of 1.9 times each day and will lose 5.4 teeth by the time they turn 72. If that man is a smoker, then he’s likely to lose a dozen teeth by the same age. Oral cancer, throat cancer, and gum disease are also more common amongst men.
Gum disease can be more serious than you may think
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the result of plaque forming and hardening into tartar. There is bacteria in that tarter, which releases acids that can irritate the gums. Eventually, they’ll breakdown the fibers that anchor the teeth. The most recent studies have shown that there may even be a link between heart disease and gum disease. Men should visit their dentist immediately if they see any of the following issues:
- Gums bleeding during tooth brushing.
- Bad breath.
- Gums that are tender, red, or swollen.
- Teeth that are loose or seem to be separating.
Other factors that can increase the likelihood of gum disease
Men are more likely than women to have gum disease but there are other predictors as well. They include:
- Taking medications that cause dry mouth.
- Using tobacco, whether chewing or smoking it.
- Playing sports can lead to trauma to the teeth, mouth, and gums.
If you’re looking for ways to decrease your chances of gum disease, reach out to California Dental Group today at (800) 407-0161 and we can help you find the right path forward.
Get a free oral cancer screening
Oral cancer is much more common in men than in women. While issues like smoking can greatly increase the risk, even non-smokers can get oral cancer. This can be a deadly cancer if not caught early because it often doesn’t have symptoms until it’s spread. The good news is that at California Dental Group, we’re proud to offer free oral cancer screenings. Call us today at (800) 407-0161 to set up your appointment.
Oral health is important and we’re here to make it easy
If you haven’t visited the dentist recently, we’d like to ask you why? Are you afraid? Has it been so long that you’re worried you have issues? Have you just not gotten around to making an appointment? Oral health is so important and at California Dental Group we are here to be a part of the solution. Call us today and let us help you move forward. Your gums will thank you!
