Did You Know?

Men are less likely to visit a dentist than women, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Rather than seeking preventative dentistry, they often see a dentist only when have a problem that needs prompt treatment. In general there are differences between mens and women and how they attend to their health. A Review of Sex and Gender Differences indicates this fact and how awareness to men’s health needs to be increased.

The ADA (American Dental Association) and AGD (Academy of General Dentistry) found that 34 percent of men from 30 to 54 years old suffer from gum or periodontal disease, relative to 23 percent of women within the same age range.

Twice as many men as women develop oral cancer, often from smoking, chewing tobacco, and drinking alcohol. Each of these are carcinogenic in nature, meaning they can put you at high risk for cancer.

Research shows that gum disease affects a larger amount of men than women. This might be a result of fewer visits to the dentist or because they are more prone to dental plaque. In any case, it’s important to notice symptoms of gum disease and to contact us for a consultation.

Gum disease is a condition that affects everyone around the world of all ages and genders. Un-noticeable at first, if left untreated, it can become a major detriment to your health. You can spot if you have gum disease or developing it by noticing:

• Receding Gums (which causes increased sensitivity)
• Bleeding Gums
• Your Gums Swell After Eating, Brushing, or Flossing.

Without treating gum disease, there can be irreversible permanent damage to your gums and the rest of your mouth. Bone & tissue loss can occur, or even worse, the loss of your teeth. To prevent these things, make sure that you brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and schedule regular appointments with DC Perio & Implants.

Gum Disease and Men

Prostate Health

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is an enzyme created in the prostate normally secreted in very small amounts. However, when the prostate becomes inflamed, infected, or affected by cancer, PSA levels rise. Research has shown that men with both periodontal disease and prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) have higher levels of PSA than men with only one condition, suggesting that prostate health may be associated with periodontal health, and vice versa.

Heart Disease

Research indicates that periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease are associated; having periodontal disease may actually increase your risk of cardiovascular disease. Both diseases are chronic inflammatory conditions, and researchers believe that inflammation is the connection between gum disease and heart disease. Since men are already more likely to develop heart disease than women, maintaining periodontal health is another way to reduce this risk.

Impotence

Men with periodontal disease, especially those younger than 30 or older than 70, are at increased risk of developing impotence, according to research. Researchers believe that inflammation may be the link between the two conditions; prolonged chronic inflammation (the same type of inflammation that is associated with periodontal disease) can damage blood vessels, potentially leading to impotence. In December 2012 another study done by the American Urological Association found that prolonged chronic inflammation, like that found in men with periodontal disease, can cause damage to blood vessels which can lead to impotence.

Cancer

Research has found that men with a history of gum disease are 14 % more likely to develop cancer than men with healthy gums. Specifically, men with periodontal disease may be 49% more likely than women to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers.

What Treatment Options are available for Gum Disease?

There are a number of treatments available for men that are suffering from gum disease. Our dental team may recommend one or more treatments after an exam and consultation.

Here are a few examples of possible treatments:

• LANAP – using a laser, this treatment is aimed at reattaching gum tissue, removing damaged gum tissue, and promoting bone growth. A popular treatment, it is less painful than other options and produces positive results in men of all ages.
• Gum regeneration treatment – used for both cosmetic purposes and surgical purposes, gum generation treatment aims at regenerating damaged tissue and bone that’s been lost due to gum disease.
• Scaling & Root Planning – A deep cleaning procedure where Dr. Abron removes any build-up of plaque and bacteria, and ensure that any open pockets are cleaned so that your gums can reattach to your teeth.
• Dental implants – restoring your periodontal health and the appearance of your teeth, dental implants act as a treatment that will replace missing teeth that are lost to gum disease.
• Periodontal surgery – this more in-depth gum surgery will depend on the extent and type of gum disease you have.

Schedule an Appointment Today

To find out if you do in fact have gum disease and to begin the process of healing, contact DC Perio & Implants in downtown Washington, DC today to schedule an appointment. Dr. Abron and our team of dentists look forward to meeting you and helping restore your smile!

Armin Abron, DDS, MS