The Importance of Regular Dental Care for Men's Overall Health

 

Updated 7/13/23

When it comes to maintaining good health, oral care is often overlooked, particularly among men. However, the significance of regular dental care extends far beyond a dazzling smile. In fact, oral health plays a vital role in men's overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the crucial reasons why prioritizing dental care is essential for men's health, supported by credible scientific references.

Oral Health and Cardiovascular Disease:

Research has consistently shown a link between poor oral health, specifically gum disease (periodontitis), and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Chronic inflammation in the gums can contribute to the development or progression of heart conditions (1)(2)(3).

Oral Health and Diabetes:

The relationship between oral health and diabetes is bidirectional. Individuals with diabetes are more prone to gum disease, and poor oral health can make it challenging to control blood sugar levels. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for effective diabetes management (4)(5).

Oral Health and Respiratory Infections:

Neglecting dental care can lead to the accumulation of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which may be aspirated into the lungs, potentially causing respiratory infections like pneumonia. By practicing good oral hygiene and seeking regular dental check-ups, the risk of respiratory infections can be reduced (6)(7).

Oral Health and Cancer:

Studies have established associations between poor oral health and certain types of cancer, including oral, throat, and esophageal cancers. Regular dental visits enable early detection of suspicious lesions or abnormalities, improving the chances of successful treatment (8)(9).

Maintaining Optimal Oral Health:

To ensure optimal oral health and its impact on overall well-being, men should adopt a comprehensive approach to dental care:

  • Brush teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, paying attention to all tooth surfaces and the gumline.

  • Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between the teeth and along the gumline.

  • Limit consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as they contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

  • Avoid tobacco products, as they significantly increase the risk of oral health problems.

  • Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months or as recommended by the dentist.

Regular dental care is paramount for men's overall health. The strong connections between oral health and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and cancer emphasize the importance of maintaining optimal oral hygiene. By prioritizing regular dental care, men can not only maintain a healthy smile but also reduce their risk of developing systemic conditions and improve their overall well-being.


References:

  • Lockhart PB, Bolger AF, Papapanou PN, et al. Periodontal disease and atherosclerotic vascular disease: does the evidence support an independent association? A scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2012;125(20):2520-2544.

  • Kebschull M, Demmer RT, Papapanou PN. "Gum bug, leave my heart alone!"--epidemiologic and mechanistic evidence linking periodontal infections and atherosclerosis. J Dent Res. 2010;89(9):879-902.

  • Pussinen PJ, Tuomisto K, Jousilahti P, Havulinna AS, Sundvall J, Salomaa V. Endotoxemia, immune response to periodontal pathogens, and systemic inflammation associate with incident cardiovascular disease events. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2007;27(6):1433-1439.

  • Taylor GW. Bidirectional interrelationships between diabetes and periodontal diseases: an epidemiologic perspective. Ann Periodontol. 2001;6(1):99-112.

  • Llambés F, Silvestre FJ, Hernández-Mijares A, Guiha R, Caffesse R. The effect of periodontal treatment on metabolic control of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Clin Oral Investig. 2008;12(4):337-343.

  • Azarpazhooh A, Leake JL. Systematic review of the association between respiratory diseases and oral health. J Periodontol. 2006;77(9):1465-1482.

  • Scannapieco FA, Bush RB, Paju S. Associations between periodontal disease and risk for nosocomial bacterial pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A systematic review. Ann Periodontol. 2003;8(1):54-69.

  • Tezal M, Sullivan MA, Reid ME, et al. Chronic periodontitis and the risk of tongue cancer. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2007;133(5):450-454.

  • Li X, Wu X, Chen Q, Li D, Huang L, Zhang J. Dental disease and risk of oral cancer: a meta-analysis of case-control studies. Oral Oncol. 2014;50(12):1200-1208.


This article is meant for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information, content and media contained is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

 
Dr. Tyler Hendricks