Daphne Chuah
GUM disease could become a bigger reason than old age for people to lose their teeth, unless awareness is heightened...
...An American study in 2002 showed that people with gum disease are at greater risk of systemic illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease and complications from diabetes.
"The disease, in its initial stage, is usually painless though there may be signs such as red or swollen gums, bleeding gums and bad breath," added Prof Tseng, at the launch of the 2007 Oral Health Month.
Key survey findings
• 88 per cent brush their teeth at least twice a day
• 70 per cent floss at least once a day
• Top three oral health conditions Singaporeans think they suffer from – teeth sensitivity (16 per cent), bad breath (12 per cent) and tooth loss (11 per cent)
Full Aticle: http://www.todayonline.com/articles/203310.asp 
