Read below to learn more about an important topic in oral health: gum disease, or periodontitis. 

1. What is gum disease?
Gum disease (periodontitis) occurs when plaque irritates the teeth and causes breakdown of your gums.

2. What are the symptoms of gum disease?

• Bleeding gums when brushing/flossing
• Red, swollen gums
• Gums that have pulled away from teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose or separating teeth
• Change in fit of partial dentures

3. Who is at higher risk of developing gum disease? 
There is an increased chance of gum disease in smokers and diabetics.

4. What conditions may be triggered or are related to gum disease? 
According to studies, gum disease may be related to miscarriages in pregnant females, stroke, and heart disease.

5. How do I prevent gum disease?
The answer is simple. Brush your teeth AT LEAST twice a day (with an ADA approved toothpaste), floss, and use mouth rinse. It is also important to go to your dentist regularly for checkups to ensure that any dental problems like gum disease are caught early before they cause major trouble.