Importance of Men’s Oral Health
Guys Frequent the Dentist less than Women
Attention Gentlemen…We are keeping score.
Do you know someone—let’s say, of the male persuasion—who is always putting off going to the dentist? While many people are guilty of this, it seems men are more likely to skip their yearly checkup: At Winchester Dental, we strong encourage coming in for a teeth cleaning and oral screening twice a year.
· According to a national survey, women report brushing more often and more thoroughly than men.
· 86% of women say they brush twice a day, compared to 66% of men.
· Men practice toothbrush replacement less frequently than women.
Studies show that men with a history of gum disease are more likely to develop certain kinds of cancer, such as kidney, pancreatic and blood cancers, than those with healthy gums. Since men admittedly take less care of their teeth, here are some ways that Dr. Andrew Arriola at Winchester Dental strongly encourages you to be extra vigilant about oral health with:
· Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two full minutes, use toothpaste with fluoride, use mouthwash and floss daily.
· Replace your toothbrush every three months or after you’ve been sick.
· Visit Winchester Dental at least once a year for a cleaning and exam.
Other things men should watch for:
Men who use tobacco. Did you know that Men who smoke or chew tobacco have a far greater risk for gum disease and oral cancer? Yes that is right. Even men who don’t use tobacco are more likely than women to have gum disease or oral cancer, so using tobacco increases that risk. Age is also a factor: 95% of oral cancers occur in those over 40 years of age. That is huge, people.
The most frequent oral cancer sites are the tongue, the floor of the mouth, soft palate tissues in back of the tongue, the lips and gums. If not diagnosed and treated in its early stages, oral cancer can spread, leading to chronic pain, loss of function, irreparable facial and oral disfigurement following surgery, and even death.
It is important for men who use tobacco to see a dentist frequently for cleanings and to ensure their mouth remains healthy. A general dentist can perform a thorough screening for oral cancer.
Men who play sports. Men who participate in sports have a greater potential for trauma to mouths and teeth. When playing contact sports, such as football, soccer, hockey, basketball or baseball, it is important to use a mouthguard, which is a flexible appliance made of plastic that protects teeth from trauma. Men who ride bicycles or motorcycles should wear a helmet.
· If you see bleeding gums after brushing or flossing, take medications that can cause dry-mouth, use tobacco, or play sports,be sure to call Winchester Dental as soon as possible to make an appointment so Dr. Arriola can assess your oral health and establish a sound treatment plan that is a right oral fit for you.
Winchester Dental – Family Dentistry You Can Count On.
Links:
https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/mensOralHealth.html
http://www.menshealth.com/health/keep-mouth-healthy
http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=m&iid=312&aid=1266