Men are 50% more likely to suffer from moderate to severe periodontal (gum) disease than females. A 2012 report by the University of Adelaide on Oral Health and Dental Care, has disclosed that 27% of males had severe levels of untreated gum disease, suggesting that our oral hygiene is second-rate compared to their gender counterparts who experience only a 19% proportion.
Why Men Should Be More Concerned About Their Gums?
Gum disease doesn’t just affect oral health; it can also impact a person’s overall health. Neglecting your oral heath can significantly increase your risk of periodontitis (gum disease) which, if left untreated, can lead to not only tooth loss, but also a number of medical problems such as cardiovascular disease, pancreatic cancer and even sexual health problems.
Even more of a reason to keep that tooth brush at hand; In a 2007 study by the Harvard School of Public Health and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, it was concluded that men who were grouped as having either moderate or severe periodontal disease had a 63% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer than those with healthy gums.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by high levels of bacteria that build up overtime to form what is known as plaque. Plaque is a sticky, colourless film-like substance which develops from the consumption of sugars in the food that people eat. When these layers of plaque start to build up due to insufficient brushing and flossing, they begin to eat away at the gums and supporting tooth structure.
If plaque is not cleaned from the tooth on a regular basis they may become red, inflamed and may bleed whilst brushing. This type of gum disease is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis often progresses to a more destructive stage known as periodontitis, where the gum will start to separate from the tooth structure, leaving little pockets around the tooth. These pockets are a “breading ground” for more bacteria and often harden to form calculus (tartar). Gradually, the bacteria will begin to reach the jaw and tooth structure, causing severe damage to both the gum and bone.
How To Prevent Gum Disease:
It is recommended that you start implementing a daily oral hygiene routine which consists of brushing at least twice, flossing once and rinsing your mouth with mouthwash. It is also recommended that after each meal, or a snack with high sugar content, you should be rinsing your mouth out with water.
On top of a daily hygiene routine, you should be visiting our practice for regular check-ups every 6-12 months.
Book Your Check-Up!
The University of Adelaide reported that 67.4% of women visited the dentist in a 12 month period over 2010-2011, where only 60.6% of males visited during this time.
Men, it’s time to take control of your oral hygiene, step up your game and start booking those check-ups.
Oral Health and Dental Care in Australia; Key facts and figures 2012; Sergio Chrisopoulos, Jane Harford; Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health; The University of Adelaide
Comments are closed.