Some form of gum disease affects about 75% of adults over the age of 35. The most common form is gingivitis, which affects the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Bacteria turn into tartar and build up around the gum at the base of your teeth. This can irritate the gums and create pockets of bacteria between the gums and teeth. It may cause red, swollen and bleeding gums.

If the bacteria aren’t brought under control, it may progress to periodontitis. This is an advanced form of gum disease where the plaque and tartar extend beneath your gum line. It causes the gums to recede from around the teeth and pockets of infection may form destroying tissue and bone that supports the teeth. Teeth may loosen and eventually fall out. Signs and symptoms include: loose teeth, swollen, recessed or bleeding gums, pus around teeth, unpleasant taste and smell, pain when eating hot, cold or sweet foods.

Periodontal disease is more than a problem in your mouth, it has been shown to be a causative factor in heart disease, stroke, low birth-weight babies, and other serious illnesses.