Periodontal Health and the Battle of the Sexes

MEN vs WOMEN:  GENDER AND ORAL HEALTH

Periodontal disease and its associated complications affect both men and women, so it’s important that both sexes are doing everything they can to maintain their periodontal health. However, Research published in the Journal of Periodontology suggests that women are more proactive in maintaining healthy teeth and gums than men. In fact, the study found that women are almost twice as likely to have received a regular dental check-up in the past year, and women in the study also had better
indicators of periodontal health, including lower incidence of dental plaque than men.

Overall, the study suggested that women have a better understanding of oral health, as well as a more positive attitude towards dental visits. This understanding is important for women, as hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life may affect her periodontal health and, therefore, overall health. Certain life stages may increase women’s susceptibility to periodontal disease, which may require special attention:

• Puberty: Studies show that elevated hormone levels may cause an increase in gum sensitivity and lead to a greater inflammatory reaction, which can cause gums to become swollen, turn red, and feel
tender.

• Menstruation: During menstruation, some women may experience menstruation gingivitis, which may
cause gum bleeding, redness, or swelling of the gums between the teeth.

• Menopause: Hormonal changes may cause women to experience discomfort in their mouths, including pain, burning sensations in the gum tissue, or mouth sores.

Men have special periodontal health considerations, as well. A June 2008 Lancet Oncology study found that men with periodontal disease may be more likely to develop kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, and blood cancers. Periodontal disease has also been linked to higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

Both men and women should strive for periodontal health by brushing twice each day, flossing
at least once each day, and seeing a dental professional, such as a periodontist, regularly.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to get a comprehensive periodontal evaluation every year. A dental
professional, such as a periodontist, can conduct this exam to assess your periodontal
disease status.

Oral Health Survey: Men vs. Women

A recent survey conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology found some
interesting results including:

• Women are 26 percent more likely than men to floss on a daily basis.

• 74 percent of women would be embarrassed by a missing tooth (a possible consequence of
periodontal disease), compared to 57 percent of men.

• Women are almost twice as likely to notice missing teeth on another person than men.

• 44 percent of women are aware that periodontists can help
contribute to overall good health,
compared to 33 percent of men.