Men’s Health Week 15-21 June 2020
To celebrate Men’s Health Week this year we’d like to look at how men fare with their oral health and how they can improve.
In general, men have been shown to be affected more than women by gum disease, tooth loss and certain oral infections. Some differences may be due to certain dental habits (or lack thereof), whereas others may be due to predisposition to health risks such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
- Infrequent dental visits. Men are less likely to visit a dentist regularly, instead visiting only when a problem occurs and requires urgent and more complex treatment, rather than routine preventative care.
- Insufficient home care. Research shows that less men than women brush their teeth twice daily. Flossing is also less regular in men.
- Higher rate of gum problems. This may be linked to insufficient brushing and flossing. Periodontal (or gum) disease has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes, thus affecting the overall, and not just oral, health.
- Higher consumption of fast food, sugar-rich snacks and sugary drinks. These can significantly increase caries rate.
- Higher risk of dry mouth. This may be associated with such factors as higher use of heart and blood pressure medications, antidepressants, higher alcohol and lower water consumption.
- Higher use of carcinogens. Twice as many men as women develop oral cancers, which are often linked to smoking, tobacco, alcohol and drug use.
- Higher incidence of dental trauma. This is often the result of contact sport, such as footy, rugby, hockey, boxing etc.
By all means many women are also guilty of all of the above, but research shows that men are affected in higher numbers than women. So to summarise, we would encourage our men to
- Improve their oral habits at home
- Brush and floss more regularly
- Pay attention to the diet and drinks being consumed
- Lead a healthier lifestyle, minimising smoking, alcohol and drug consumption
- Ensure mouth guard wear in contact sport
- Make dental appointments a routine to prevent bigger problems from developing in the future
We are here to help! If you have any questions you wish to discuss further or would like to book an appointment please contact EDG on 95316387 or email us at info@elwooddental.com.au
