When it comes to staying healthy, men and women face a different set of challenges, which even extends to their teeth and gums. Since June is National Men’s Health Month, it’s a great time to find out what the research has shown and get some tips that any man can use to start improving their oral health right away. In addition to minimizing major dental work from a dentist in Greenfield, maintaining a healthy smile also lowers the risk of many serious health conditions. Want to learn more? Keep reading below!
The Research On Men’s Oral Health
A study in The Journal of Periodontology found that men tend to have poorer oral health than women for a few different reasons. First, women are nearly twice as likely to get regular checkups. If treatment is necessary, women are also more likely to schedule it. In addition, men showed more signs of gum disease like bleeding, plaque, and tartar, and also viewed dental visits in a more negative light.
The American Dental Association also found that:
- Men are also less likely to brush after every meal: 20.5% compared with 28.7% for women.
- Men are less likely to brush their teeth twice a day: 49% compared with 56.8% for women.
- Men are more likely to have untreated cavities than women: 29% compared with 25% for women.
How Are Men Impacted By Poor Dental Health?
Unfortunately, these tendencies often lead to oral health problems that need major dental work to fix and impact a man’s general health. For example, gum disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss and also increases the risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s, stroke, diabetes, and even some cancers.
Without regular checkups, small problems like minor cavities can progress and turn into situations like severe toothaches that require a visit to an emergency dentist in Greenfield.
Going Back To Basics
The following two tips may seem basic, but they form the foundation of good dental health:
- Oral hygiene habits – Brushing and flossing doesn’t have to be done perfectly, but consistent habits will make a big difference (e.g. consistently flossing several times a week instead of every night). Also, anything that makes things easier and more convenient is very helpful, such as brushing after dinner instead of waiting until bedtime or using hygiene aids like floss picks.
- Regular checkups – Many men would never dream of neglecting maintenance work on their car or truck. Regular checkups and cleanings do for your smile what oil changes and tire rotations do for your vehicle – prevent major breakdowns later.
If you or the men in your life could benefit from a healthier smile, these guidelines are a great place to start. And since it’s National Men’s Health Month, there’s no time like the present!
About the Author
Dr. Sean Hrinda is a general and emergency dentist in Greenfield and a graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He understands the unique dental health issues men have and provides high-quality care that’s tailored to their needs. If you have any other questions about men’s oral health, he can be contacted through his website.