While the topic of erectile dysfunction may be considered taboo, it is a widespread issue affecting a significant portion of the male population.
According to a review conducted in 2018, erectile dysfunction affects approximately one-third of men. Furthermore, a 2019 review reported that the global prevalence of the condition varies widely, ranging from 3% to 76.5%.
The Massachusetts Male Aging Study, conducted in 1994, is a frequently referenced research when discussing the prevalence of erectile dysfunction, despite its age. This study revealed that approximately 52% of men experience some form of ED, and the incidence of complete ED rises from 5% to 15% between the ages of 40 and 70.
Although the likelihood of experiencing ED increases with age, it is not uncommon for younger men to encounter the condition. A research study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine reported that ED affected approximately 26% of men under the age of 40.
Erectile dysfunction can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, restricted blood flow to the penis, conditions affecting the nervous system, as well as psychological issues like depression and anxiety. Moreover, the condition can also serve as an early warning sign of underlying medical problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
Abbas Kanani, Superintendent Pharmacist at the online pharmacy Chemist Click, shared with Express.co.uk in an exclusive interview about the potential link between unhealthy gums and erectile dysfunction.
Despite some conflicting research, numerous studies have also indicated a correlation between erectile dysfunction and chronic gum disease, commonly referred to as periodontitis.
Gum disease is a prevalent issue affecting a majority of adults in the US at some point in their lives. If left untreated, it can lead to severe infections, resulting in a loss of tissue and bone, as well as chronic inflammation that can damage endothelial cells. These cells line the blood vessels in the body, including those located in the penis.
According to Mr. Kanani, damage to these endothelial cells can lead to restricted blood flow, which can cause erectile dysfunction. Chronic inflammation, which occurs when the body is unable to repair inflamed tissues, can also result in changes to blood chemistry that increase “the risk of cardiovascular disease.”
Periodontal disease has been identified as a distinct risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Given that cardiovascular disease can contribute to erectile dysfunction, this strengthens the theory that “periodontal disease may raise the risk of erectile dysfunction.”
In 2013, the Journal of Sexual Medicine published a study that examined 80 men with erectile dysfunction, of whom 53% also had chronic gum disease. In contrast, a group of 82 men without erectile dysfunction demonstrated that 23% had periodontal issues.
Mr. Kanani clarified that while the results do not establish a causal relationship between gum disease and erectile dysfunction, there is a connection.
“Men who have been diagnosed with gum disease tend to have erectile dysfunction more often than men without gum disease.”
Another study published in the American Journal of Men’s Health in 2018 also confirmed a link between gum disease and erectile dysfunction. After conducting a meta-analysis of nine existing studies, it was concluded that there is a positive association between chronic periodontitis and erectile dysfunction. However, further controlled clinical trials are necessary to establish a definitive link.
The study emphasizes that physicians should recommend oral healthcare evaluations and treatment for patients who suffer from erectile dysfunction.
Mr. Kanani stated that there may be several explanations for the connection. He added that despite ongoing research into the relationship between poor gum health and erectile dysfunction, it is a challenging issue to study.
There may be many shared factors behind the apparent link, “underlying diabetes or hypertension, poor general health status, lack of medical attention for gum disease and vascular disease.”
According to experts, to avoid gum disease, one should:
- Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, spitting out the foam after brushing without rinsing.
- Clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
- Replace the toothbrush every one to three months.
- Regularly visit a dentist and dental hygienist, particularly if one is pregnant or has type 2 diabetes.
Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums during brushing, flossing or while eating hard foods such as apples, and swollen, red, and painful gums.
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