Half of American Adults Have Periodontal Disease: Are YOU One of Them?

Periodontal DiseaseA Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study revealed that one out of every two adults over the age of 30 has periodontal disease. The report revealed that 47% of these cases involve more advanced forms of the disease. In adults over the age of 65, 7 out of 10 individuals are likely to have periodontal disease.

What is Periodontal Disease:
The disease itself consists of chronic inflammation the affects the gum tissue and jaw bone supporting the teeth. If untreated, the situation could lead to irreversible jaw bone and tooth loss. Equally important is the more recent research linking periodontal disease to other significant illnesses such as Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease. Periodontal disease can be considered an important risk factor for stroke and heart attack.

Importance of the Study:
This research is the first of its kind to evaluate patient’s full mouths (not only isolated teeth) for the presence of the most destructive form of the disease, Periodontitis. Previously, it was not believed to be as widespread in our population. Results of the study revealed that the disease occurs with a higher frequency in men than women (56% to 38%). In addition, smokers were also found to have an increased risk of periodontal disease (64%).

The significant prevalence of the disease becomes even more important when paired with the fact that it increases as we age. Today, we on average live longer and keep more of our teeth than previous generations. Clearly, living longer lives and retaining more teeth as we age, will likely lead to an even higher rate of prevalence of periodontal disease.

Determining If You Have Periodontal Disease:
The American Academy of Periodontology recommends an annual comprehensive periodontal evaluation. This painless assessment typically includes a review of your current x-rays, along with an evaluation of the gum and bone health around your teeth. In addition, a risk assessment for future development of the disease can be determined. Fortunately, there are a number of options available when treating periodontal disease, many of which are pain free. The best option for each individual patient can only be determined after a true assessment of the teeth and gums are performed.

Lee R. Cohen, D.D.S., M.S., M.S.,
is a Dual Board Certified Periodontal and Dental Implant Surgeon. He is a graduate of Emory University and New York University College of Dentistry.

Dr. Cohen completed his surgical training at the University of Florida / Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. He served as Chief Resident and currently holds a staff appointment as a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Periodontics and Dental Implantology. Dr. Cohen lectures, teaches and performs clinical research on topics related to his surgical specialty.

The focus of his interests are conservative approaches to treating gum, bone and tooth loss. He utilizes advanced techniques including the use of the Periolase Dental Laser (LANAP procedure) to help save teeth, dental implants, regenerate supporting bone and treat periodontal disease without the use of traditional surgical procedures. Additionally,
Dr. Cohen is certified in Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation, which is a scalpel and suture free procedure to treat gum recession with immediate results.

Dr. Cohen uses in-office, state of the art 3D Green 2 CT imaging which offers Hi Resolution 5 Second Low Dose Scans to develop the least invasive dental implant and bone regeneration treatment options.
Dr. Cohen and his facility are state certified to perform both IV and Oral Sedation procedures. Botox® and Dermal Fillers are also utilized to enhance patients’ cosmetic outcomes.

Dr. Cohen formerly served on the Board of Trustees for the American Academy of Periodontology and the Florida Dental Association. He is past president of the Florida Association of Periodontists and the Atlantic Coast District Dental Association. Dr. Cohen is a member of the American College of Maxillofacial Implantology and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. In addition, he has been awarded Fellowship in the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists and the Pierre Fauchard Academy.

Lee R. Cohen, D.D.S., M.S., M.S.
4520 Donald Ross Road, Suite 110
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
Phone: 561-691-0020
www.pbcperio.com

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