Get Dad a Dentist!

Overall, men are less likely than women to take care of their physical health, and, according to recent surveys and studies, their oral health is equally ignored.

Good oral health recently has been linked with longevity. Yet, one of the most common factors associated with infrequent dental checkups is just being male.

Men are less likely than women to seek preventive dental care and often neglect their oral health for years, visiting a dentist only when a problem arises.

Most people know that neglecting oral health means risking cavities and gum disease. In recent years however, researchers also have found a connection between gum disease and coronary vascular disease, which can place people at risk for heart attacks and strokes. In individuals with diabetes, gum disease is associated with poor control of insulin levels.

In addition to combating cavities and gum disease regular visits to a dentist can also:

• Help improve bad breath. Almost every suffers; the most common cause is poor oral hygiene.
• Detect early stages of oral cancer. Men are twice as likely as women to develop the disease.
• Custom fit a mouthguard. More than 200,000 injuries to the mouth and jaw occur each year; mouthguards can prevent serious injury.
• Temper snoring habits. More than 60 percent of men snore between the age of 41 - 65.
• Whiten and brighten teeth. Studies show a good smile can bolster one's professional image.
• Recommend tobacco cessation programs. Dental implant failure is strongly linked to tobacco use.

We suggest that instead of buying Dad another bad tie this Father's Day, get him a dentist...