Acid reflux (GERD) occurs in as many as 4 in 10 adults. At that prevalence, it is one of the most common chronic or episodic diseases.
A new Korean study reports that acid reflux is a significant, independent risk factor for chronic gum disease. A patient with acid reflux is almost 3 times more likely to have chronic periodontal disease as a healthy patient.
So, when next evaluating the medical history of the patient or conducting a risk assessment for future oral diseases, look for signs and symptoms of acid reflux (GERD).
Your community, as reported by the Facebook campaign for Partners in Prevention, certainly expects its dental team to do so.
By: Ross Perry
SOURCED: Partners In Prevention – http://partnersinprevention.ca/4-out-of-10-adults/
