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Men's health is a topic of great importance and needs to be highlighted and addressed more frequently since oral health is one of the critical aspects of men's health that are often overlooked. Many assume that oral health is just regular brushing and flossing your teeth, but it is much more than that.
Did you know that men are five times more likely to develop oral cancer than women? Furthermore, men are also more likely to develop gum disease and throat cancer. This blog post will explain why men are at an increased risk of developing these conditions and what men must do to protect their oral and overall health.
Why Men Are at a Higher Risk of Developing Gum Disease
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men have a 60% higher risk of developing gum disease than women. This is likely because men are more inclined to smoke, which is a significant risk factor for gum disease. Men are also less likely to brush and floss regularly, which can allow plaque and tartar to build up and cause gum disease.
To prevent gum disease, men should consider doing the following:
- Don’t smoke
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Regular, bi-annual dental checkups and cleanings
Why Men Are at a Higher Risk of Developing Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is another oral health condition that men are at a higher risk of developing. There are studies that show men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer than women. This could be due to lifestyle factors such as smoking and increased alcohol consumption.
Prevention of oral cancer involves the following:
- Don’t smoke
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Getting regular screenings from your dentist
Why Men Are at a Higher Risk of Developing Throat Cancer
Throat cancer is also more common in men than women. Studies also show men are four times more likely to develop throat cancer. This could be due to lifestyle factors such as smoking, heavy drinking, and having multiple sexual partners.
Throat cancer prevention is much like oral cancer, where avoiding these risk factors is critical. Men should maintain good oral hygiene, avoid smoking, and have regular dental checkups.
Why Men Are at a Higher Risk of Tooth Decay
Lastly, men are more likely to develop tooth decay than women. This could be due to lifestyle factors such as a high sugar or carbohydrate diet and poor oral hygiene. To prevent tooth decay, men should do the following:
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Limit sugary and carbohydrate-rich foods and drinks
- Visit their dentist regularly to identify and treat any decay early
Other Factors That Put Men at a Higher Risk of Oral Health Conditions
Hormonal Imbalances
The difference in hormones also affects men's oral health compared to women. Men tend to produce more androgens, a hormone that helps regulate the development and maintenance of male characteristics. Unfortunately, this hormone triggers an increased production of plaque.
Plaque is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that causes gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss over time.
Fitness and Exercise
Men who exercise regularly and stay fit tend to have better oral health than sedentary men. A lack of exercise and poor fitness levels can lead to poor circulation, which affects oral health. Exercise improves circulation and keeps the gums healthy.
Making Mens Oral Health a Priority
Men's oral health is critical and should not be understated. Understanding the risks of developing oral health issues and the steps men can take to protect their oral health can prevent many serious health problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and throat and oral cancer.
To prevent these harmful conditions, men need to prioritize good oral hygiene by doing the following:
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Regular dental visits to ensure their oral health is in good shape
- Get regular cancer screening during their dental checkups
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Use mouthwash daily
- Floss daily
- Stay hydrated
By making simple changes to their lifestyle, men can reduce their risk of developing severe health conditions and continue enjoying their lives as intended.
For more information about oral health or to schedule an appointment, contact our dental professionals at ProHEALTH Dental. (855) 750-5011