Recent surveys and studies show that men are less likely to take care of their physical health than women. This holds true for their oral health.
- Males have an increased risk of developing oral and throat cancer
- Men are at greater risk of developing periodontal disease
- One-third of males have not had a dental checkup in the past year
- A man will lose an average of 5.4 teeth by the age of 72
- A man who smokes a tobacco product is likely to lose up to 12 teeth by age 72
Dentists play a key role in the early detection of oral cancer. Every time you go into the dentist for a routine checkup, your dentist should do a screen for oral, head, and neck cancers. When caught early, there is a high chance for complete recovery. Regular visits to the dentist can also help to prevent the development of periodontal disease and tooth loss! Patients with periodontal disease are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, putting people at risk of heart attacks and stroke. Males are already more likely to suffer from heart attacks, so good oral hygiene and routine trips to the dentist are extra important, especially as men age.
First make sure they know and regularly practice the best oral hygiene basics:
- Brush at least twice daily
- Floss every day
- Visit the dentist twice per year for a regular cleaning and oral exam
- Use a toothpaste with fluoride and a rinse regularly
- Eat a healthy diet for your oral health and whole health
- Avoid tobacco products and drinks with acid and sugar
We can all do our part to make sure all the special men in our lives take care of their oral health! We can support them in their daily habits to promote whole health and a lifetime of smiles! Remind your loved ones that seeing a dentist regularly promotes prevention and could save lives!