Men: Looking for a new job? Visit the dentist!

An online poll of almost 300 general dentists and consumers conducted by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) confirms the traditional stereotype that men are less likely to visit the dentist than women.

Why? Nearly 45 percent of respondents thought that men don't see a need to go to the dentist, and about 30 percent of those polled reported that men may not visit the dentist because they are afraid or embarrassed to go. Almost 18 percent revealed that men just don't have the time for a dental visit, and about 5 percent thought that it might be because men don't even have a regular dentist.

However, according to the AGD, this long-standing trend may be disappearing, as more men are climbing back into the dental chair for a surprising reason – the job search.

Not long ago, most men worked for one or two employers throughout a lifetime and many did not think about the way their overall appearance affected their professional life. Today’s job market is different: with lay-offs and company closings, many mid-career, middle-aged men are competing for jobs with younger men, which may make appearance a greater factor in their job search.

"Many men have noticed the positive effects from a colleague's appearance and realize that a great smile has a lot of value in the business world," says Ken Sutherland, DDS, a senior dental consultant for Delta Dental.

Taking a back seat to new cosmetic concerns for men is the increased awareness of the overall health benefits of seeing a dentist regularly.

"As a dentist, I want men to take care of their teeth because they're concerned about their health; however, I'm glad when they visit the dentist for whatever reason," says Dr. Sutherland. "Many times after men begin regularly visiting the dentist they realize that proper maintenance and regular checkups are the key to improving not only the way one looks but also the way one feels."

Men: Looking for a better job? Start by visiting the dentist. Academy of General Dentistry.

The oral health information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only. You should always consult a licensed dentist or other qualified health care professional for any questions concerning your oral health.