Problem: Gum Disease

A bacterial infection caused by plaque that attacks the gums, bone, and ligaments that keep your teeth in place. The early stage is known as gingivitis, the advanced stage as periodontitis.

Who's at Risk: Everyone. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) estimates that half of all adults have some signs of gingivitis. Most at risk are people with poor oral hygiene; those with a systemic disease, such as diabetes, that lowers resistance to infection; and smokers. Women also have a tendency to develop gingivitis during pregnancy. Other risk factors are stress, which weakens the immune system, and genes. "Some people can have gingivitis all their lives and never progress to periodontitis," says Bruce Pihlstrom, D.D.S., acting director of the Center for Clinical Research at the NIDCR. "It depends on a person's susceptibility to the disease."

What to Do: See a dentist regularly, and tell her if your gums feel tender or bleed. Gingivitis can be reversed with regular brushing and flossing. To combat periodontitis, a dentist or periodontist may perform a deep cleaning around the teeth and below the gum lines and prescribe medication to combat the infection. If the disease has progressed to affect your gums and bone, your dentist might suggest surgery, such as a gum graft (see Daunting Dental Procedures).