Good oral hygiene practices are essential to reversing gum disease and preventing it from returning. Thoroughly brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and flossing at least once a day are your primary tools for keeping bacterial plaque off of your teeth and from irritating the gums

Gum Disease Increases Your Risk of Dying. Another study indicated that men under age 50, who have advanced periodontal disease, are 2.6 times more likely to die prematurely and three times more likely to die from heart disease than those who have healthy teeth and gums.

Gingivitis. The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.