CERRITOS, Calif., Feb. 2, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — The Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry (IALD) is excited to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Gum Disease Awareness Month this February. The grassroots movement of Gum Disease Awareness Month has developed into a global effort to educate the public about the overwhelming prevalence and consequences of gum disease, as well as treatment and prevention methods. To coincide with the anniversary, the IALD has launched FightGumDisease.com, a comprehensive resource for dental pati
ents and professionals alike.
An International Cause
Since starting the movement in 2012, the IALD has been committed to spreading the word about this serious and often underestimated disease. Now recognized in 49 U.S. states, Gum Disease Awareness Month is an opportunity for dental professionals to emphasize the importance of successful treatment. Despite Governor Jerry Brown’s oration on commitment to health care, California is the only state that has not recognized this oral health initiative.
Impact Beyond Your Mouth
FightGumDisease.com highlights the gum disease epidemic, signs and symptoms, systemic connections to other health risks such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, pre-term birth and erectile dysfunction, plus treatment and prevention tips. Additionally, the website shares advice on how to get involved with Gum Disease Awareness Month through social media and support in local communities and organizations.
“When we launched Gum Disease Awareness Month in 2012, our goal was to spread the word about the severity of gum disease and the impact on your overall health,” said Dawn M. Gregg, DDS, Training Director for the IALD. “Five years later, we are thrilled with what we have accomplished thus far, but know there is much more work to be done. With the launch of FightGumDisease.com, we continue our dedication to making successful gum disease treatment a reality for Americans and the world at large.”
ABOUT THE INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED LASER DENTISTRY: The IALD is a non-profit educational and research center dedicated to providing evidence-based clinical training in advanced laser dentistry therapies. Formed in 1999, the IALD is ADA-CERP and AGD-PACE accredited, and is nationally recognized for its continuing education programs. The IALD’s ultimate goal is for the percentage of patients seeking treatment for periodontitis to reach the percentage of patients seeking general dental care.