(HealthDay News) -- Periodontal disease affects the thin crevice between the gums and teeth called the sulcus. This causes the attachment of the tooth and nearby tissue to disintegrate, causing a pocket that becomes deeper as the disease worsens.

The American Dental Association says warning signs of gum disease include:

• Bleeding that's easily triggered from the gums.
• Gums that are sore or tender, swollen or red.
• Gums that recede from the teeth.
• Frequent bad taste or bad breath.
• Permanent teeth that feel loose or feel like they're separating from the gums.
• Changes in alignment of the teeth or dentures.