While periodontitis is a gum infection affecting dental health, it is also associated with systemic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases.
Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the periodontal soft tissues, potentially leading to loose teeth, tooth loss, and other serious complications. Data show that in the United States, among those 65 and older, approximately 68 percent, or two out of three, have gum disease, with nearly 20 percent experiencing complete tooth loss.
