Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Although it is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults because it is virtually pain-free many patients do not know they have the disease until the damage is severe. Your dentist checks for symptoms of gum disease during your regular check ups. Your dentist may measure your gums—too much space between your teeth and gums is an indicator of the disease.

Many people dismiss excessive tooth wear as “natural aging or wearing” of teeth, but this is not the case. As the disease advances, pain increases. Unfortunately, early signs of occlusal disease are often ignored. The more the disease progresses, the more damage occurs. If you notice tooth wear, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

Believe it or not, your dental health has a profound effect on your overall health. Oral health, particularly gum disease, has been linked to several chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Plus, poor oral health in pregnant women has also been associated with premature births and low birth weight. Your oral health can impact your general health, making preventive care extremely important.