7 minutes
Did you know that some characteristics of the mouth depend on sex? Find out about these differences between the teeth of men and women.
When comparing some physical aspects between the female and male sex, the contrasts are very noticeable. But, Are there differences between men’s and women’s teeth? Here we tell you some curiosities that will surely catch your attention.
We all have a different mouth, with a unique appearance. Despite this, you will be surprised to know that some issues have to do with sex. Below, we detail the differences that often go unnoticed. Keep reading!
1. The size
Although there are no differences in the number and shape of teeth in men and women, yes there may be discrepancies in size. To a great extent, the diameter of these depends on the physical constitution that each one has.
And in the differences between the sexes, the size of the teeth of women is usually smaller than that of men. This feature is useful for forensic medicine, as it provides valuable data when it comes to recognizing people.
Although it is not a rule, as a general rule, the average height and weight are slightly higher among boys. This determines that the teeth also stick to it.
2. Dental care habits
Currently, there is a greater awareness of the importance of caring for oral health. In any case, there are differences between the care of the teeth applied by men and that carried out by women.
The female sex tends to have more discipline when it comes to taking care of their teeth. There are studies They show that women brush their teeth and use dental floss more frequently than men.
Also, some reports They also postulate that visits to the dentist are more frequent among women. Men tend to postpone attention until a problem appears.
As a curiosity, married men tend to visit the dentist more often than single men, Well, their wives are in charge of making appointments with the professional for them.
3. Dental problems
Oral diseases between men and women also tend to present certain differences. There are some ailments that are seen more often in one sex than the other:
- Cavities: it is more common in women. The diet associated with the incorporation of the female sex into the labor market could be a factor that affects the greater development of this disease. For example, those who work in an office or meet hours during lunch tend to eat products of lower nutritional quality and more cariogenic.
- Gingivitis and periodontal disease: it is more common in men. It could be associated with neglect of oral hygiene. In any case, there are particular hormonal situations in women that increase the possibility of suffering from this condition at certain stages, such as pregnancy.
- Loss of dental pieces: Older women are more at risk of tooth loss than men. This is largely explained by hormonal changes. In any case, the greater attendance at the dentist increases the chances of being intervened with an extraction when necessary.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: It is more common in women, in a proportion 3:1 in relation to men. Diagnosis of the underlying cause is sometimes difficult.
- oral cancer: Oral cancer, throat cancer and oral lesions caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) tend to appear more frequently in men. There is a greater exposure of the male sex to carcinogenic substances and to practices that favor the malignant transformation of cells. Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and lack of regular dental checkups are some examples.
4. Hormonal influence
Hormonal activity changes throughout life. This is usually reflected in the changes of certain characteristics in each stage. This situation is more noticeable in women, especially when they are over 40 years old, at which time the decline of estrogen begins.
In this way, the hormonal alterations typical of puberty, pregnancy and menopause increase the predisposition to certain conditions, such as the following:
- Pregnancy gingivitis: is the inflammation of the gums during pregnancy. Gum tissue swells, hurts, and bleeds easily. For this reason, it is essential that pregnant women take care of their oral health and carry out the scheduled consultations with the dentist for each trimester.
- Pregnancy granuloma: It is a benign tumor that develops on the gums during pregnancy. It can bother eating or talking. It goes away on its own once the baby is born.
- Xerostomia: the lower production of saliva and the consequent dry mouth are associated with menopause. This can lead to other problems, such as an increased risk of periodontal disease and halitosis.
- Osteoporosis: lower bone density is linked to menopause. The maxillary bones are also affected by this pathology and predispose to tooth loss, since their support is reduced.
In any case, not only women have these peaks of oral problems associated with hormonal changes. It has been determined that men with prostatitis are at increased risk of gum disease. In turn, both conditions can be associated with high blood pressure.
5. Dental trauma
Dental trauma is more common in men, since these tend to be exposed more regularly to risky activities. Playing sports that involve physical contact with other players, such as rugbyAmerican football, boxing, wrestling and water polo, are some examples.
Activities in which falls are common, such as cycling, rock climbing, or skateThey are also more common in males. These practices increase the chances that teeth will end up chipped, fractured, loose, or missing altogether. The use of mouth guards can reduce the risk of these accidents. However, this preventive measure is less assumed by men.
Among other things, it should be mentioned that dentoalveolar trauma as a result of traffic accidents They tend to be more common in males. In general, men drive proportionately more than women and tend to be involved in more road accidents with injuries.
6. Causes of bad breath
Halitosis or bad breath can affect both men and women, but its origin can change according to sex. For men, the most common cause is smoking.
This custom causes an unpleasant characteristic odor that is enhanced by the dry mouth that it also causes. Poor dental hygiene is another factor that can cause bad breath in men.
In contrast, in women this symptom is usually influenced by hormones. Menopause, for example, can cause dry mouth, increased bacterial growth and bad odor. The same can happen during menstruation.
There are no differences when it comes to taking care of yourself
These differences between the teeth of men and women can be curious. However, regardless of gender, oral health depends to a greater extent on individual behavior.
Sex is a non-modifiable risk factor. However, making decisions regarding habits is an accessible factor. You choose whether or not to brush your teeth, for example. Good dental hygiene, a healthy diet and semi-annual dental check-ups are care that help to have a healthy mouth.
So instead of fearing the predisposition to certain conditions that derive from whether you are a man or a woman, it is best to take sides in taking care of what does depend on you. With the right habits you will be able to keep your smile in optimal conditions.
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