Riverside Holistic Dentist Explains New Research: Gum Disease Related to Erectile Dysfunction:

Discussing erectile dysfunction on a dental blog is probably shocking to most people, however, recent research has shown that this unfortunate health condition is absolutely dental related.  This condition affects 1 out of every 10 men over the age of 40, according to the National Institute of Health.

Just how does the bacteria in periodontal disease (gum infection) aid in erectile dysfunction?

Interestingly, findings show that the gum inflammation caused by the bacteria allows for the plaque and bacteria to travel to the bloodstream throughout the body.  Once the plaque attaches to the smaller blood vessels it causes constriction in the blood vessels which leads to dysfunction in the vessels surrounding the penile tissues.  Furthermore, the plaque continues its path of destruction and moves to larger vessels attributing to heart ideas.

In the study published by the Journal of Periodontology, in the test group, 4 out of the 5 men with erectile dysfunction had periodontal gum disease.  The shocking results of this study has prompted many other research institutions to gather data to establish the correlation between ED and periodontal gum disease.

What can you do to minimize your risk of periodontal disease as a man?

1. Proper oral hygiene: brushing for at least 2 minutes/day along with flossing 1/day.

2. Frequent visits to your dental hygienist (at least 2 times a year)

3. Decrease stress levels

4. Maintain a healthy diet

5. Include essential fatty acids, vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin D in your diet

If you believe that you have periodontal gum disease please contact my cosmetic dental office which specializes in a more natural approach to dentistry.  We are located off of the 91-freeway in Riverside, California.  (951)686-3666.