No matter bow nice the teeth look, if the gums are unhealthy deterioration will set in and lead to tooth loss. Gum (periodontal) disease is the number one reason for tooth loss in the adult population.

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria (plaque) growing on the teeth. A substance the bacteria releases causes the gums to become infected. If the bacteria are not removed, the bone under the gums becomes infected, resulting in bone loss. Eventually the tooth has so little bone holding it in place that it becomes loose and may have to be pulled.

Since the process is slow and insidious, it is important to recognize the early signs of periodontal disease and to have the gums checked regularly.

The gums are normally a coral pink color. One of the first signs of gum disease is red gums that bleed. If the gums bleed during normal, regular brushing or flossing, the problem is gum disease and requires a dentist's assistance to remedy.