Importance of Oral Hygiene for Men

Men have long been noted to ignore their physical health, but studies have also demonstrated that they tend to ignore their dental health as well. Ignoring dental health can have disastrous consequences. In fact, good oral health has been linked with good overall health while poor dental health and gum disease have been associated with cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

According to statistics, men brush their teeth fewer than two times a day, and the average man loses more than five teeth by the time he is 72. Men who smoke are likely to lose at least 12 teeth by that age. Men are also far more likely than women to suffer from periodontal disease and oral cancer. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film that develops on teeth and harbors dangerous oral bacteria. The bacteria attack the enamel on teeth and the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. If the plaque is not adequately removed, it hardens into tartar, a mineralized substance that can only be removed by a professional cleaning. Both plaque and tartar are associated with the development of periodontal disease.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include chronic bad breath, bleeding gums, red or swollen gums, shifting teeth or loose teeth. If you have any symptoms of periodontal disease, it is essential that you contact our dentist for further evaluation, a professional cleaning and a treatment plan. Brushing your teeth twice a day or after meals and flossing daily can reduce your risk of periodontal disease and other serious dental health conditions. Contact Dr. Ghasri, West Hollywood dentist, to learn more.

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