Patients with COPD might require more instruction in preventing periodontal disease and actual periodontal therapy than patients without COPD. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disease making breathing difficult. It’s the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 12 million people are currently diagnosed with COPD and there are likely just as many more who are undiagnosed. Smoking is a significant risk factor for COPD. |




