In the earliest phase, gum disease may appear as swollen, inflamed gums. The inflammation is a result of the immune system’s natural defenses to fight off the foreign bodies, in the form in bacteria. As the disease advances, gum tissue may deteriorate and retract from the teeth. At this stage, the disease is referred to as periodontitis. We believe that the best defense for this disease is a good offense, in the form of preventive measures of adequate oral care.