Frequent brushing or brushing twice a day is not enough to remove plaque from in between the teeth, the reason why it is very important to floss your teeth daily. If plaque is not removed, it will calcify or harden into a thick deposit called tartar or calculus. Chronic gum infection and inflammation are the result If tartar is allowed to remain on the teeth and below the gumline. Professional cleaning at the dental office is the only way to remove tartar. The early stage of gum disease which is gingivitis can be treated and reversed if it is diagnosed early. The signs and symptoms include red, puffy and swollen gums the bleed easily. Gingivitis can progress into periodontitis if treatment is not received. Periodontitis is an advance and more serious stage of gum disease which includes bone loss and is not reversible. One of the main causes of tooth loss in adults is gum disease, which has also been linked to strokes and heart attacks. The best preventions against gum disease is brushing twice daily, flossing daily, regular dental check ups and dental cleanings.