Gum disease: By the numbers Nearly half of adults in the United States have some form of periodontal disease

https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/gum-disease-by-the-numbers?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a leading threat to dental health and the most common cause of tooth loss. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on and around the teeth. If you don’t remove plaque on a regular basis, it can cause inflammation and infection. This infection can break down the gum tissue, bone, and connective tissue that support your teeth.