The Battle Of The Sexes – Dental Style

In 1965 James Brown sang “It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World.”  A few years earlier Harry Belafonte sang to us “That’s right – the women are smarter!” So who is right when it comes to dental health?

It turns out one group is more likely to have healthier gums, less plaque and tartar build-up, fewer areas of bleeding gums, and lower incidents of gum disease.  This group also is twice as likely to schedule regular dental check-ups and is much better at following through with treatment recommended by their dentist.

To top if off, they have a better understanding of oral health and a more positive attitude about visiting the dentist!  So just who are these dental superstars?

According to the Journal of Periodontology, a professional journal which publishes articles on gum disease – it’s the “fairer sex” who has the advantage when it comes to dental health.  Maybe it’s true that “the women are smarter!”

So does that mean females are less likely to have cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, and stinky breath?  Sorry guys – the answer is yes.

The good news is – it seems to have nothing to do with genetics or the fact that women and men have a different chromosomal arrangement.  It is purely because women take better care of their teeth and gums and see their dentists more regularly.

So how about it guys?  It’s time to “get on the stick” – or at least the toothbrush.  Start taking better care of your teeth and gums, and be sure to give us a call at 877-217-8590 to schedule your next appointment!  And women – keep up the good work!

At the Cedar Rapids Smile Center we care about ALL of our patients – men and women!  We are always here for you to answer any questions you should have about your dental health.  Give us a call today!

Why The Heck Do You Need To Know That?

When you come in for your dental visit, you may notice that we do a lot more than examine your teeth and gums. One of the most important parts of your visit is when we ask you questions about your general health. But many people have said to us: “What does that have to do with my dental check up?”

The answer – a lot!

More and more research is being published linking dental health to overall health, and at Cedar Rapids Smile Center we are concerned about both! Did you know that diabetes, especially when it is undiagnosed, can be a huge factor in gum disease, eventually causing tooth loss? A recent study by Columbia University concluded:

“Gum disease is an early complication of diabetes.” It continues: “Since 70% of adults see a dentist at least once per year” this is a perfect opportunity to screen for diabetes or other diseases.

According to a recent article in the British Dental Journal, it works the other way around too, as gum disease can be a contributing factor in heart disease, oral cancer, and other illnesses. Are you taking any medications, either prescription or over-the-counter? Many of these can lead to dry mouth, gum inflammation, and other dental problems. And it’s even more complicated for women, as hormonal changes, pregnancy, and oral contraceptives can cause many changes in dental health. (Isn’t everything more complicated for women?)

So the good news is, unlike a visit to your physician – you get to keep your clothes on and won’t be poked and prodded anywhere other than your mouth! But as you can see, it is extremely important that we know about your total physical health and any medications you are taking. not only can we save your teeth – we may actually save your life!

If you want to know more about your dental health and how it relates to your overall health, please let us know!  If you have any questions or want to schedule your next appointment, just give us a call at 877-217-8590.  We are here for you!!