A recent study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine has revealed that men in their 30s with severe gum disease are 3 times more likely to have erection problems. This comes after past research has shown that periodontal disease may be linked to heart disease, which is a common cause of erectile dysfunction. Although there are no claims that one disease causes the other, the association is thought to be related to inflammation brought on by gum disease bacteria.

These are all valid reasons that men should take an active role in the health of their teeth and gums before other areas of the body are affected. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention estimate that almost half of U.S. adults have periodontal disease. Of that, 56% of men have periodontal disease, compared to over 38% of women.

Other areas where periodontal health has been associated with the status of men’s health, in particular, include prostate health, heart disease, impotence and cancer. For example, research has found that men with a history of gum disease are 14% more likely to develop cancer than men with healthy gums. Additionally, 49% of men are more likely to develop kidney cancer, 59% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer and 30% more likely to develop blood cancer.

Men need to do a better job of protecting their overall health by keeping their periodontal health at an excellent level. Symptoms of gum disease include gums that bleed when brushing, sore or swollen spots on gums, persistent bad breath, and gums that are red rather than a healthy pink color. If you have any of these symptoms, call (828) 274-9440 for an examination appointment as soon as possible. Gum disease will not improve without treatment.

We all make New Year’s resolutions — exercise more, eat less sugar and more veggies, etc., etc. But, like many American adults, by mid-February we’re losing steam with our commitment. By the first of April, many of us have raised the proverbial white flag.

It’s not unusual for adults to have periodontal disease because dental fears have prevented them from receiving the dental care they need. So, here is a Resolution you can keep: Overcome your fear of dentistry! That’s right! You CAN do it and we’re here to help you! Here’s how …

• First, call us at (828) 274-9440. A friendly staff member will answer the phone and answer your questions. She can set up a consultation appointment for you if you’d like to meet personally with me.

• We’ll begin by conversing in our quiet consultation room, which is removed from the clinical side of the practice. We’ll sit in comfy arm chairs and I’ll explain the options we have available for patients with high fear or anxiety.

• After this visit, it’s up to you to decide how you wish to proceed. I can walk you to the clinical area and show you around. Or, I can introduce you to a few of our staff members who are experienced in caring for patients with dental fear.

Remember, the first step is in your hands. Let us help you with a New Year’s resolution you CAN keep!

This time of year always has me thinking about all the wonderful people we have seen as patients. Many of these came to us after going for a number of years, even decades, without seeing a dentist. Most had avoided dental care for so long because of a fear of dentistry.

As a Periodontist, I cannot imagine treating someone who is in pain because of my hands. While many people who have dental fears are forced into care because of a painful dental problem, our office is not only dedicated to restoring their mouth to good health, but doing so in a gentle and comfortable manner.

In addition to being committed to providing your care in comfort, we are also very respectful to our patients. We realize that, for many, it takes a great deal of courage to even walk into our reception area. Regardless of how long it’s been since seeing a dentist, ALL of our patients are given ‘red carpet’ treatment.

The only reason we exist is to provide care for our patients. Providing that care to the highest standards with respect to each individual in a manner that is comfortable and pleasant is our commitment to you!

I hope this coming year will bring you many smiles, ones that are healthy and worry-free!

It was Thomas Jefferson who coined the phrase, “Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.” Wise words then, and are still.

It’s not unusual to see a patient who is in dire need of periodontal treatment, even though they are not experiencing pain. Hence, some assume their treatment can be delayed.

As a Periodontal Specialist, I know too well what lies ahead for most who delay treatment for gum disease. Since periodontal (gum) disease will not improve without treatment (and will progressively worsen), treatment in latter stages typically requires more time and greater expense.

Be proactive with your dentistry so you can enjoy a worry-free smile. You’ll find you actually save time and money by avoiding more-complex treatment later.