Dentists don’t talk about it much, but studies show there’s a direct association between periodontal disease and conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. In fact, periodontitis can also impact other reproductive health issues, such as infertility in both men and women, as well as increase a woman’s chances of developing preeclampsia or experiencing a pre-term birth.
In regard to ED and gum disease, the link is likely due to the inflammatory response caused by the presence of oral bacteria. In fact, some physicians recommend that any man experiencing symptoms of ED see their dental provider for a periodontal evaluation and treatment if needed. (1)
Because oral bacteria associated with gum disease can spread throughout the cardiovascular system, it may interfere with blood flow to reproductive organs in addition to causing inflammation. Some experts even hypothesize that periodontal disease may be linked with lower testosterone levels, which are essential for healthy erections.
By eliminating the oral infection and inflammation inside of your mouth, ED sufferers are more likely to see an improvement in their symptoms. Scheduling routine preventative dental cleanings, daily brushing and flossing, and working with a periodontist for more chronic gum conditions can help eliminate your oral infection. And as your oral health and overall wellness improve, the side-effects such as ED symptoms can as well.
If you’re suffering from ED and it’s been several months since your last dental checkup, be sure to plan a professional cleaning and exam. Your dental team will screen for signs of periodontal disease during your visit and recommend an appropriate care plan. But even before then, you can re-vamp your brushing and flossing routine to get a head start on combatting your oral infection.
1. Kellesarian SV, Kellesarian TV, Ros Malignaggi V, Al-Askar M, Ghanem A, Malmstrom H, Javed F. Association Between Periodontal Disease and Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review. Am J Mens Health. 2018 Mar;12(2):338-346. doi: 10.1177/1557988316639050. Epub 2016 Mar 29. PMID: 27030114; PMCID: PMC5818109.