Hi everyone!

The amazing work that our dental hygienists at my Southfield dental office do is pivotal to how well we serve all the neighboring communities of Bloomfield Hills, Farmington Hills, Birmingham, Franklin, Lathrup Village, Huntington Woods, Berkley, Bloomfield Twp., West Bloomfield and of course, Southfield, Michigan. Our hygienists are first-rate professionals and provide first class service that is a cornerstone in our practice. Not only do they clean teeth and treat gum disease, but these team members also are active in patient education and diagnostic services such as digital x-rays, periodontal (gum) charting, oral cancer screening, taking blood pressures, and thorough clinical examinations.  They are competent and confident as well as personable and gentle, too – key reasons a visit to our dental office, Dr. Mark W. Langberg, DDS, MAGD, is a low-stress event and high value event. [Read more…]

Hi everyone!

Today’s blog speaks about the link that has been found between periodontal (gum) disease and an increased risk of respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).  Recent studies have concluded that bacteria in the mouth can colonize the lungs and contribute to pneumonia and other respiratory ailments. This is particularly true with nursing home residents and hospital patients who are using a respirator. Often oral hygiene is less than ideal in these settings, and oral bacteria flourish in the mouth.

A recent study out of Yale’s School of Medicine pinpointed bacterial changes in patients’ mouths prior to the onset of pneumonia.  It’s believed that these harmful bacteria are directly inhaled into the lungs, where they set up shop – eventually leading to respiratory infections and even fatal pneumonia.  In addition to pneumonia, the studies have revealed a direct connection between mortality from COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and periodontal (gum) disease. [Read more…]