Dental

Men’s Health Month 

What men need to know about their oral health

Many studies have shown that men take their oral health for granted. Compared to women, men are less likely to seek dental care and more likely to neglect their oral health. For example:

• Men visit the dentist less frequently than women and when they do go, it’s often to treat acute problems rather than for preventive care. Men are also less likely to follow their dentist’s recommended treatment plan after their visit.
• The same study found that men are more likely to engage in habits detrimental to dental health, such as using tobacco products and drinking alcohol.
• The findings also noted that that men are less likely to floss than women and are 40% less likely to brush after every meal.

Neglecting oral care can lead to more than an unhealthy smile and may even lead to life-altering and deadly medical conditions.

Risk Factor: Gum Disease 

Having gum disease may increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. People with gum disease have more than twice the risk of having a heart attack, stroke or another serious cardiovascular event, according to Harvard Medical School research.

Men have much higher rates of gum disease than women, with about 56% of men affected versus 38% of women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Because of this, you should be especially vigilant for signs of gum disease such as red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath or loose teeth.

Risk Factor: Using Tobacco 

More than 54,000 new cases of oral cancer are reported in the United States each year according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research’s most recent statistics, and these cancers occur almost twice as often in men than in women.

Risk Factor: Playing Sports 

Sports account for 40% of all dental injuries in the U.S., with men more likely to sustain these injuries, according to The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine.

If you play sports, particularly contact sports such as football, soccer, hockey, basketball or baseball, be sure to use a mouthguard, a flexible appliance made of plastic that protects teeth from trauma. If you ride a motorcycle, you should always wear a full-face helmet.

5 Oral Health Challenges that are unique to men

Oral health isn’t one-size-fits-all, and men face specific challenges that can impact their smiles and overall health. From habits and lifestyle choices to biological factors, understanding these unique challenges can help men take better care of their teeth and gums. Here’s what men need to know.

Men are more likely to have poor oral health habits

Studies show that men are less likely to brush and floss regularly compared to women. This lack of consistency leads to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. With busy schedules and a “brush-and-go” mentality, men often overlook the importance of thorough oral care. This can result in more serious dental issues down the road, like tooth loss or severe gum disease.

Men lose testosterone as they age

As men age, they experience a decline in testosterone levels, which can lead to oral health issues like gum recession and tooth loss. Low testosterone has also been linked to other conditions that impact oral health, including a higher risk of developing diabetes, which can worsen gum disease.

Take care of your oral health 

Men face unique oral health challenges, but with a little attention and the right habits, many of these issues can be prevented or treated early. A healthy smile starts with a solid oral care routine, regular dental checkups, and making mindful choices about lifestyle habits. By staying proactive about oral health, men can keep their teeth strong and their smiles bright for years to come.