Brushing and flossing are important daily habits that contribute to a healthy smile. But this daily regimen often is't enough to prevent gum (periodontal) disease. This chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue cause about 70% of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some point in their lives. Like smoking, elevated cholesterol or obesity, periodontal (gum and bone) disease may be a risk factor for a number of serious health conditions. In recent studies, gum disease has been linked to: