Gum diseases are among the most common chronic human diseases, affecting between 20 to 50% of people worldwide.
a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on teeth
The earliest stages of gum disease are treatable and reversible (gingivitis)
some people develop a chronic destructive form of gum disease, which is irreversible.
This disease progresses to tooth loss.
Improving gum health
you can change your lifestyle to reduce your overall risk. For example, eating less sugar, avoiding tobacco and alcohol and reducing stress can all help.
important to know that certain medications (such as some antidepressants and hypertension drugs) may lower saliva production, which can increase your risk of gum disease.
the most important things you can do to protect yourself from gum disease are brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and avoiding using mouthwash after brushing – and taking care not to rinse after brushing to allow the fluoride to remain on your teeth.