Periodontal Disease and Erectile Dysfunction

by | Jul 29, 2015 | Dental Health, Gum Disease, Your Health

This blog may be the last place you expected to see the term “erectile dysfunction” – after all, what could this condition possibly have to do with oral health? If you are a regular reader of our blog, you already know that links have been established between periodontal disease and other diseases and conditions, including some that are systemic and even life-threatening, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Now, erectile dysfunction (ED) has been added to this list, as a 2012 study by Turkish researchers revealed that slightly more than half of the men they studied between the ages of 30 and 40 with ED also suffered from chronic periodontitis.

Higher Stress Levels

Although ED isn’t a life-threatening condition, it can prove to be an ongoing strain on personal relationships and self-confidence, which can, in turn, lead to a higher level of stress and pose a threat to your overall health. According to the Mayo Clinic, most cases of ED are caused by physical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, high cholesterol and even the use of tobacco, alcohol and certain prescription medications. Although it has not been proven that periodontal disease causes ED or vice versa, the link that has been established through this study is consistent with the links that have also been established between the health of your gums and many other diseases and conditions that can affect your body and your health. Why, then, does it make sense to neglect regular dental cleanings and checkups and, by extension, your gums and teeth? If you need to schedule an appointment with our office, please contact us and we’ll be happy to arrange one for you.