The Georgia Dental Association launched today a campaign titled "Because I Saw My Dentist" to educate consumers about the importance of good oral health and to motivate them to see their dentist regularly for better overall health.

The campaign profiles real Georgians telling their stories of how finding a dental home and seeing a dentist changed their lives dramatically. The stories are brought to life through video, audio and print materials that can be found on the Georgia Dental Association's campaign website, www.becauseisawmydentist.com. The site enables people to find a dentist near them and encourages Georgians to establish a dental home.

"The new campaign educates and helps Georgians link the connection between their oral health and their quality of life," said Executive Director of the Georgia Dental Association, Frank J. Capaldo. "The mouth is a telescope to the body and the value of establishing a dental home is demonstrated through these real-life testimonials that showcase dentists as the first line of defense and offense to total and lifelong well-being."

Dentists are uniquely qualified to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases of the mouth, throat and jaw. They perform a variety of oral procedures and identify symptoms that could indicate serious health issues, like oral cancer or diabetes. Because dentists are doctors with four or more years of graduate training in oral health, they are able to diagnose and formulate comprehensive dental treatment plans, handle serious medical emergencies, and provide an appropriate evaluation of medically compromised patients of life threatening diseases.

According to the CDC's Division of Oral Health, nearly one-third of all adults in the U.S. have untreated tooth decay. A recent survey conducted in Georgia by the Toluna Group revealed that 35 percent of those who could see a dentist or who have dental insurance don't go until they have a serious problem, 20 percent don't have a dental home and 10 percent say knowing more about preventive benefits would drive them to act. 

Demetria Rhynes of Macon, Ga. credits a regularly scheduled dental visit with helping her catch a potentially disabling disease. Working with her dentist who referred her to a specialist, her disease was diagnosed and treated early, leading to better outcomes. "Because I saw my dentist, my multiple sclerosis was caught early and I am able to live a normal life," said Rhynes.

"Because I Saw My Dentist" is part of a larger Georgia Dental Association Action for Dental Health initiative to actively address barriers to oral healthcare and improve oral health for all Georgians. Having a dental home and seeing a dentist on a regular basis can alleviate pain before it starts, preempt invasive oral procedures, improve the quality of life and save lives through early diagnosis of life threatening issues.