Gum disease is a major dental problem that involves the gums and supporting structures that hold teeth in the jawbone. It is a slow progressive condition. Left untreated it will result in tooth loss. More adults will lose teeth as a result of gum disease than from tooth decay.
Signs of gum disease include red or swollen gums, gums that bleed when you brush or chronic bad breath. Some of the major risk factors for gum disease are smoking, poor diet, pregnancy, menopause and diabetes.
Gum disease can be controlled with good oral hygiene. This includes daily brushing and flossing. Regular visits to your oral health care provider will help you prevent gum disease.
