Hi everyone!

In order to bring national attention to gum disease, the Institute for Gum DiseaseAdvanced Laser Dentistry (IALD) has declared February Gum Disease Awareness Month.  According to the CDC, an overwhelming number of Americans have untreated periodontitis placing them at risk for heart disease, stroke and possibly cancer.

Many people ignore the warning signs which include swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, painful chewing, and loose or sensitive teeth.  There are also certain behaviors and risk factors that can contribute to gum disease, such as smoking, stress, diabetes, heredity, crooked teeth, and even hormonal changes.

If you’re over the age of 30, you have a 50 percent chance of having a mild, moderate or severe form of periodontal disease.  Overall, 85 percent of U.S. adults have some form of gum disease. People with diabetes are especially prone to gum disease and gum infections.

Armed with these statistics, the IALD has been instrumental in having 19 states issue official proclamations to support state-wide campaigns for Gum Disease Awareness.  Facts, treatments and information about gum disease as a national epidemic can be found at www.fightgumdisease.com.

The team of Dr. Mark W Langberg, DDS, MAGD  stands behind this crusade against this public health challenge.  The only way to avoid gum disease is to see your dental health professional at least twice a year and keep bacterial plaque off of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly.  Frequent checkups allow us to monitor and maximize not only the health of your gums but your overall health.  With more evidence pointing to periodontitis as an early indicator of so many diseases, can you really afford to put it off or wait?  Bottom line – dental check-ups on a regular basis may just save your life!

That’s all for today!  Until next time,

Cosmetic and General Dentistry in Southfield

Dr. Mark W Langberg, DDS, MAGD
26206 West 12 Mile Road, Suite 303
Southfield, MI 48034
(248) 356-8790