Spotlight on Men’s Gum Health

Brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist twice a year are some of the most important steps you can take to maintain good dental care. These healthy habits will keep your smile looking great and help you avoid gum disease. While gum disease can affect patients of all ages, dentists in Glen Ellyn find that it tends to be more common in male patients. Take a closer look at men’s gum health and how it can impact other elements of men’s health by reading through this article.

Gum Disease in Men

Men are slightly more likely than women to develop gum disease. Men are also less likely to schedule regular trips to the dentist than a woman, which may contribute to the higher risk of gum disease. It is also more difficult to spot signs of gum disease in men, as men have higher instances of tartar and plaque buildups on the teeth and surrounding gum tissue. If gum disease is caught in its earliest stage, proper dental hygiene can reverse the effects and prevent future problems.

Gum Disease and Heart Health

Good dental hygiene can do more than protect men’s mouths; it can also protect their heart health. There is a link between gum disease and heart disease, potentially because both of these diseases are associated with chronic inflammation. Dentists can help men reduce their risk of developing gum disease, which can help them reduce their risk of heart disease.

Gum Disease and Prostate Health

The prostate produces an enzyme called prostate-specific antigen, or PSA. Higher levels of PSA are typically found in men prostate cancer, which is why PSA levels are tested when evaluating the risk of this type of cancer. Men who exhibit signs of gum disease have higher levels of PSA in their systems, showing a link between gum health and prostate health.

Gum Disease and Cancer

Gum disease has been linked to numerous other health conditions, including various types of cancer. Men who are suffering from gum disease tend to have a higher risk of developing certain kinds of cancer, including blood cancers, kidney cancer, and pancreatic cancer.