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June is Men’s Health Month, a timely reminder that maintaining overall wellness includes paying attention to oral health. While dental care is essential for everyone, studies show that men face specific oral health risks that are often overlooked or untreated until they become serious. From higher rates of gum disease and oral cancer to increased occurrences of dry mouth and tooth loss, the challenges are both significant and preventable.
In this article, we’ll explore why men are more vulnerable to certain dental health concerns, how these conditions impact overall well-being, and what men can do to protect their smiles.
Men and Oral Health
Research consistently shows that men are less likely to visit the dentist regularly than women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Health Interview Survey, in 2022, 62.3% of men aged 65 and older had a dental visit in the past 12 months, compared to 64.9% of women in the same age group. While this data specifically pertains to adults aged 65 and older, it reflects a broader trend where men generally have lower dental visit rates compared to women.
But avoiding the dentist doesn’t just lead to cavities. It can also mask more serious problems like periodontal disease and oral cancers, which disproportionately affect men.
Gum Disease: A Hidden but Common Problem
One of the most widespread oral health issues in men is periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease. The CDC reports that over 56.4% of men suffer from some form of periodontal disease, compared to 38.4% of women.
Why the Disparity?
- Lifestyle choices: The CDC notes that men are more likely to smoke, drink alcohol excessively, and avoid flossing—all major risk factors for gum disease.
- Dental neglect: Men are also less likely to use fluoride toothpaste or visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and deep scaling.
What Happens If Gum Disease is Ignored?
Unchecked gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and even contribute to systemic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and erectile dysfunction, due to the inflammatory response triggered by oral bacteria entering the bloodstream.
Tip: Brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and schedule a dental cleaning every six months. If your gums bleed while brushing or feel swollen, see your dentist.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, isn’t just an inconvenience. It’s a serious oral health issue, especially common in men taking medications for high blood pressure, anxiety, or prostate issues. As men age, the use of prescription medications increases, and many of them reduce saliva production as a side effect.
Why Saliva Matters
Saliva plays a crucial role in protecting the mouth: it neutralizes acids, aids digestion, and washes away food particles. Without enough saliva, men are more likely to develop cavities, bad breath, gum disease, and difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Managing Dry Mouth
- Stay hydrated – sip water throughout the day.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco—all of which worsen dryness.
- Use mouthwashes specifically designed for dry mouth.
- Ask your doctor or dentist about alternatives to medications causing dry mouth or products like saliva substitutes.
Oral and Throat Cancer: A Rising Risk
Men are nearly twice as likely as women to be diagnosed with oral and oropharyngeal (throat) cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. These cancers are often not diagnosed until they are in advanced stages, making them especially dangerous.
Common Risk Factors
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
- Poor diet and nutrition
- Neglecting regular dental exams, where early signs may be spotted
Early Warning Signs
- Sores that don’t heal
- Lumps or swelling in the cheek or neck
- Difficulty swallowing
- Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
- Numbness in the tongue or mouth
Tip: Regular dental checkups can save your life, according to a recent report by JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Dentists screen for oral cancer during routine visits and can detect suspicious lesions or tissue changes early.
Sports, Injuries, and Oral Trauma
Men are more likely to participate in contact sports and high-risk physical activities that can result in chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. Dental trauma can lead to lifelong complications, especially if not treated immediately.
Prevention
- Wear a custom-fitted mouthguard during all sports or high-impact activities.
- Never use your teeth to open bottles, packages, or perform other non-eating tasks.
Tooth Loss
Men over the age of 65 are more likely to have complete tooth loss compared to women, largely due to untreated decay, advanced gum disease, or dental trauma. Despite this, men are less likely to seek restorative procedures like dental implants or bridges.
Tooth loss doesn’t just affect appearance, it impacts nutrition, digestion, speech, and self-confidence.
Restorative Dentistry Options
- Dental implants: Permanent, functional tooth replacements that preserve jawbone health.
- Bridges and dentures: Less invasive solutions that restore chewing and speaking function.
Mental Health, Stress, and Teeth Grinding
Stress and anxiety—conditions that men often underreport—can lead to bruxism, or teeth grinding. This habit can wear down enamel, cause jaw pain, and lead to long-term TMJ disorders.
Tip: If you wake up with jaw pain or notice worn teeth, talk to your dentist about a nightguard or stress-reducing techniques.
Taking Action: How Men Can Prioritize Their Oral Health
The good news is that most dental health issues are preventable or treatable with early intervention. Here’s how to get started:
- Make dental care part of your routine – get check-ups and cleanings every 6 months.
- Practice good hygiene—brush and floss daily, and replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months.
- Limit sugar, alcohol, and tobacco.
- Wear protective gear if you play sports or grind your teeth.
- Don’t ignore symptoms—see your dentist for anything unusual, from sores to pain to dry mouth.
- Discuss medications and side effects that may impact your oral health with both your doctor and dentist.
Final Thoughts
Men’s Health Month is the perfect time to reflect on your health habits, including dental care. While oral health might not always be top of mind, it plays a vital role in everything from heart health to mental well-being. By understanding the unique challenges men face—and taking proactive steps to manage them—men can protect their smiles and support their overall health.
So this June, make a commitment to your health. Brush up your dental routine, book that overdue check-up, and take pride in caring for yourself from head to toe.
If you’ve been skipping regular checkups and cleanings due to budget concerns and no dental insurance, consider joining a dental savings plan. Plan members report average savings of about 50%* on their dental costs. Use the calculator below to get a quick look at what you could save at the dentist.
*Discount Health Program consumer and provider surveys indicate average savings of 50%. Savings may vary by provider, location, and plan.
