Periodontal diseases, also known as gum disease, are some of the most common infections in the United States. In fact, more than 75% of adults have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal diseases are a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Periodontal disease may be a risk factor in fatal coronary heart disease, stroke, as well as low birth weight and premature births in pregnant women.


Despite the number of people infected with these diseases, most believe that they don't have them. In a recent survey, eight out of ten Americans believe they did not have periodontal diseases, but seven out of ten exhibited one or more symptoms.


Periodontal diseases are painless until their advanced stages. If left untreated they irritate the gum, causing infection, periodontal diseases can result in bad breath; red, swollen, bleeding gums, and eventually tooth loss.


Despite all these facts, periodontal diseases are some of the most preventable diseases. To prevent periodontal diseases you need to understand what causes them, learn and practice good oral health habits, and seek regular professional care.