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DENTALHEALTH….Dental HealthandDads
By Dr. NerominiFagu
Around the world today is a special day that is dedicated to fathers. Some fathers play a dual role of both
Dr. NerominiFagu
parents. These single dads sometimes are so busy taking care of their children that they tend to neglect their own self and this includes their dental health.
In general, men are more reluctant than women to visit the dentist and will mainly wait to do so until it is absolutely necessary. Of course, this dental visit is usually prompted by some amount of discomfort or pain. The following are some points you should be aware of:
Missing Dental Visits
According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), men are less likely to visit a dentist than women. Most men tend to forego regular dental check-ups and preventative treatments and would often visit their dentist when they develop a serious problem.However, men should be aware that they are role models and if they are reluctant to go to the dentist the impressionable youngsters around them may take a cue from them.
Insufficient Brushing
Research by the American Dental Association (ADA) has found that men are less likely to brush their teeth twice a day than women. Most of the time brushing is done in the morning. However, skipping the nightly dental hygiene routine is a recipe for dental disaster. The acids and sugars from the foods and drinks that are consumed during the day and before going to bed will speed up the tooth decay process and also cause plaque to build up and harden to tartar. This can cause irritation to the gums and lead to gum disease.
Higher Risk of Dry Mouth
Reports from the AGD suggest that the quality of men’s dental health may be associated with heart disease, and high blood pressure medications that can cause dry mouth. Saliva helps to wash away food particles and keep a balanced pH in the mouth. It also helps to remineralize the tooth enamel. When there is a decrease in saliva flow, the chances of dental problems will increase. Your dentist can advise on how to help prevent dry mouth.
More Dental Replacements
Some published statistics have shown that elderly men have fewer teeth than women by a certain age. This means that they are more likely to need dentures. With proper personal and preventative oral care you may be able to keep your natural teeth for a lot longer.
Higher Use of Carcinogens (cancer causing products)
Twice as many men as women develop oral cancer, often from smoking, chewing tobacco and drinking alcohol. Each of these habits involves the use of carcinogens which put men at a greater risk for cancer.
Not chewing food properly
They say that a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. However, many of our male counterparts do not take the time to chew their food. It is important to chew your food properly for good digestion. However, if you have dental issues this might not be such an easy thing to do.
If you have missing teeth, wear dentures or partials, or have issues with bite and alignment, all of these can directly affect your ability to chew and digest your food.Not being able to chew well can also affect your food choices, with many men avoiding foods high in fiber and other nutrients which can lead to serious digestive issues.
Better “dateablility”
What do single folks look for in a male dating partner? Is it rock-hard abs, a full, manly beard, or big feet? You may be surprised by the answer – nice teeth and a great smile. It seems that healthy teeth are more important on dating apps like Match.com and Tinder, because a man who takes care of his smile is likely to take care of his whole body.
The best way to keep your smile healthy is to keep up with your home oral hygiene routine which includes brushing for two minutes, twice per day, flossing at least once per day, and seeing your dentist for a regular checkup and cleaning every six months.
When it comes to your health – and your confidence – your smile can make all the difference in the world.Have a happy Father’s Day.
For more information contact OMNI DENTAL at 295 Quamina Street, Georgetown Tel: 227-0025, Parika Tel: 260-3133 or send emails to [email protected].
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