Gum disease (or periodontal disease), a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue, is the major cause of about 70% of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some point in their lives. Gum disease can be asymptomatic and painless. Gum disease, which starts out as gingivitis but eventually turns into far more serious periodontal disease, is far and away the most common cause of tooth loss. Gum disease is a common dental problem that requires treatment. The good news is that in most people gum disease is preventable. In addition, several products have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration specifically to diagnose and treat gum disease, and even regenerate lost bone.