Periodontal diseases, also know as gum disease, are some of the most common infections in the United States. In fact, more than 75% of American adults over the age of 35 have some form of periodontal diseases.

Despite the number of people infected with these diseases, most believe they don't have them. In a recent survey, eight out of ten Americans believed they did not have periodontal diseases, but seven out of ten exhibited one or more symptons.

Periodontal diseases are painless until their advanced stages. If left untreated, periodontal diseases can result in bad breath; red, swollen and bleeding gums; and, eventually, tooth loss. In fact, periodontal diseases are the leading cause of adult tooth loss.

Despite all these facts, periodontal diseases are also some of the most prevental diseeases.

The best way to remove decay-causing plaque - the sticky film of bacteria that coats your teeth - is by cleaning your teeth thoroughly every day. While toothbrushing removes plaque from the tooth surfaces, it can't do the entire job of removing plaque. Cleaning between the teeth with floss or interdental cleaners removes debris from between the teeth and under the gumline - areas where your toothbrush can't reach. Tooth decay and gum disease often begin in these areas, so it's important to clean them thoroughly.