According to the Journal of Dental Research, the number of adults in the U.S. suffering from periodontal disease may be significantly higher than previous research has indicated[1].
In a newly released study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), researchers appear to have underestimated how many cases of moderate to severe periodontitis actually exist in the U.S. population – an underestimation by as much as 50%!
“This study shows that periodontal disease is a bigger problem than we all thought. It is a call to action for anyone who cares about his or her oral health,” said Samuel Low, D.D.S., M.S., associate dean and professor of Periodontology at the University of Florida College of Dentistry and president of the AAP.
“Given what we know about the relationship between gum disease and other diseases, taking care of your oral health isn’t just about a pretty smile. It has bigger implications for overall health, and is therefore a more significant public health problem.”
Click here for the American Academy of Periodontology online gum disease risk assessment test: http://service.previser.com/aap/default.aspx
And keep up your regularly scheduled dental visits!
[1] http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gum-disease-found-to-be-significant-public-health-concern-103475209.html
