Periodontal diseases, commonly referred to as "gum disease", affect both the gum tissue and jawbone around teeth. Resulting from a combination of infection and genetic factors, the periodontal diseases are the major cause of tooth loss in adults. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that the infection and inflammation of gum tissue and bone around teeth can have links to other more serious health issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory infections. Gum disease is more than just "gums" and is a serious risk to your oral and general health.