Gum Disease Impacts One Half of Adults

Findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published in the Journal of Dental Research show high prevalence rates of periodontal disease in the U.S., indicating that one out of two American adults over age 30 have Periodontists.

This equates to approximately 64.7 million Americans.

This data was collected from the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). It was the first to use full-mouth periodontal examinations, making it the most comprehensive survey of periodontal health ever conducted in the U.S.

The findings indicate that periodontal disease is higher in men than women (56.4 percent vs. 38.4 percent) and is highest in Mexican-Americans (66.7 percent) compared to other races. Other segments with higher rates include current smokers (64.2 percent); those living below the federal poverty level (65.4 percent); and those with less than a high school education (66.9 percent).

Also highlighted were the extent, severity and prevalence of periodontal disease in our population. It also serves as a call-to-action for all dental professionals to educate their patients about the risk of periodontal disease and give a thorough assessment of every patient for the disease with annual comprehensive periodontal evaluations.

A thorough evaluation includes an examination of the mouth plus an assessment of the patient’s overall health including the risk indications
LANAP is a dramatically less traumatic, yet highly effective alternative to treat gum disease.

In addition to significant reduction or elimination of gum disease and harmful bacteria found in the mouth, the longer term effects from LANAP show bone re-growth.

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has planned a multifaceted media outreach campaign to inform consumers about the prevalence findings and explain the importance of yearly comprehensive periodontal evaluations.

With your help, we can reduce gum disease, increase awareness and treatment and help your patients have the best dental health possible.