Why is gum disease awareness so important? Periodontal (gum) disease occurs when plaque continues to build up, hardens on your gum line and causes your gums to swell. Usually, brushing and flossing can help get rid of excess plaque, but plaque can quickly form in your mouth within a period of time as short as 24 hours. The longer the plaque is left in your mouth, the harder it is to get rid of.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), half of Americans aged 30 and older have gum disease.What are the symptoms of gum disease?Some signs that you might have gum disease are swollen and bright red gums, bad breath, new spaces between your teeth, loose teeth, and tenderness in the gum if touched.What are the dangers of untreated gum disease?Robert H. Gregg II, DDS, joins Dr. Mike to discuss symptoms of gum disease and the dangers to your health if it is left untreated.