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As part of a Europe-wide initiative, the British Society of Periodontology announced its gum disease awareness campaign in the UK last month.

New research in the field of periodontology suggests that there are links between healthy gums and general wellbeing, including systemic illnesses such as diabetes and cardiac health.

The research, gathered over a period of 30 years, also includes associations between gum disease and pregnancy complications.

One of the main causes of gum disease is the large numbers of bacteria that live in the mouth, often leading to other health problems.

With 8 out of 10 adults over 35 suffering from some kind of gum complaint, the BSP plans to highlight how periodontal diseases can cause problems with aesthetics, speech, ability to eat, bad breath loose teeth, and can lead to eventual loss of teeth.

Within the next two years, dentists will be targeted to show they are checking on everyone’s gum health - and making improvements where necessary.

This is an initiative led by the World Health Organization reflecting their belief that a healthy mouth is a good indicator of a person’s general good health.

The BSP will be embarking on many activities across the country over the coming months to educate and engage the public, dentists and medical professionals about the importance of periodontal care.