Periodontal diseases and conditions affect the tissues around your teeth. There are three types tissues around your teeth that can affected: gums, bone, and connective tissue between the tooth and bone/gums. Various conditions can affect the health of these tissues. Proper periodontal care, early treatment of periodontal conditions and periodontal maintenance (follow-up care) are the key elements for your periodontal health and teeth retention. Healthy gums enhance the appearance of your teeth. Healthy surrounding bone ensure the proper function and alignment of your teeth. Healthy connecting tissue help to seal against disease invasion. When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red. In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth will shift, loosen or fall out. The disease process not only affects your ability to chew and speak; it can also affect your overall health and ruin your smile.