Health-conscious men looking to prevent visits to an emergency dentist could be interested to hear findings from a new study.
According to the research, males who contract gum disease due to poor oral hygiene are more likely to experience problems achieving an erection.
Statistics revealed that 81.8 per cent of participants who were unable to perform sexually were also found to suffer from bleeding and inflammation of the gums.
Affecting one in ten men internationally, erectile dysfunction was found to be less common in men with satisfactory oral health.
Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the BDHF, said: “To associate gum disease, the major preventable cause of tooth loss in adults, with such a taboo subject amongst males is not something that should be taken lightly.”
Men who experience difficulty achieving an erection are often found to have a reduced quality of life, which can lead to insecurity and embarrassment in their partner, according to NHS Choices.