Women seem to have the advantage over men when it comes to their odds of having good oral health. Studies have shown that women are more apt to schedule, keep and follow up on regularly scheduled appointments with their dentist and oral hygienist. Having a checkup once every six months is a good thing but it’s also important to heed the advice of your dentist and make that second appointment to go ahead with the procedure that he has recommended.
Prevention is the key to maintaining good oral health. Gum disease, for instance, can easily go undetected in the earliest stages and even if you do notice increased sensitivity or bad breath you may just pass it off as something else. But gum disease is also a slow mover so if you keep regular professional visits your dentist will be able to spot any signs of impending trouble.
Due to hormonal changes women are more susceptible to gum disease during pregnancy and burning mouth syndrome as they experience menopause. Your dentist may recommend increasing visits during these higher risk times.
Men are more likely to participate in contact sporting events that can put them at risk for injury. Wearing a custom-made mouthguard can provide extra protection against trauma.
Talk to your dentist about other risks particular to men or women. Call Kendra L. Patterson, DMD @ 303-722-9504 in Denver.