Happy Father’s Day!
What better time to talk about Men’s Oral Health?
According to studies and surveys from the American Dental Association, men are less likely to partake in preventative dental care than women and are more likely than women to develop gum disease. Gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular disease, which puts you at higher risk for heart attacks and strokes.
Men are more likely to smoke or chew tobacco, which increase the risk for gum disease and cancer. Men have a higher risk than women to get gum disease and cancer, even if they don’t smoke or chew…using tobacco products only increases your risk. If oral cancer goes unnoticed and untreated, it can cause pain, numbness, loss of function, and death.
Studies also show that men are less likely to brush more than one time a day. By brushing after you eat and before bed, you kill the bacteria that attack tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Mouth guards are not just for contact sports. If you play sports, grind your teeth, and/or snore at night, mouth guards can help protect your teeth as well as improve your quality of sleep.
Men’s Oral Health is a big deal! We want all of you men to have a healthy mouth, a healthy heart, and a healthy life. Here is a quick checklist of what you can do:
- Make appointments for at least two dental cleanings per year.
- Have an oral cancer exam during a regular dental checkup. It is painless and quick.
- Learn proper techniques for brushing and flossing – brush after every meal and brush before bed.
- Ask your dentist about ways you can protect your teeth and mouth if you actively participate in high contact activities, or grind your teeth at night.
From all of us here at McGann Facial Design, Happy Father’s Day to all of the fathers out there who have made an impact on their children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and beyond. Brush, Floss & Smile!
