Gum disease is a common chronic health condition. Did you know it is linked to many serious diseases?

Gum disease affects anywhere from 20 to 50% of people globally. It causes swollen, sore and bleeding gums and is usually caused by a build up of plaque. But did you know that gum disease can increase your chances of developing other serious conditions?

For example:

• Alzheimer's disease - a type of dementia, associated with problems with thinking and memory and progressive cognitive decline
• Cardiovascular disease - disease that effects the heart and circulatory system, such as heart attack
• Type 2 diabetes
• Cancers - not just of the mouth

The good news is that the best defence against gum disease is brushing your teeth twice a day, using dental floss and regularly visiting the dentist.

Read more on The Conversation - Four health conditions linked to gum disease

Watch the video below to learn about research the British Heart Foundation are funding, that is looking at the links between gum disease and cardiovascular disease and diabetes.