If you have been told you have periodontal (gum) disease, you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease.Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost. Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Research is also pointing to possible health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth, periodontal disease may increase your risk for a variety of health concerns such as weakened immune system, diabetes, stroke, lung diease, preterm low birth babies, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, gastric ulcers and heart disease.

Unlike most diseases that give us early warning signs, gum disease progresses silently, often without pain. It may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly. Some of the symptoms of gum disease include bad breath that won't go away, red or swollen gums, tender or bleeding gums, painful chewing, loose teeth and sensitive teeth.

You might be asking yourself, well what can I do to prevent gum disease? Here are some things you can do to prevent periodontal diseases: Brush your teeth twice a day (with a fluoride toothpaste), floss every day, visit the dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning, eat a well balanced diet and don't use tobacco products.