Cavities aren’t the only threat to your dental health. Gum disease is also a leading cause of tooth loss. What’s more, it can affect your overall wellness negatively. Advanced gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, and many other health conditions. Although gum disease is preventable, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that at least 50% of adults have a form of the infection. Your dentist checks for signs of gum disease at each dental cleaning and checkup. They’ll measure your periodontal pockets to ensure your gums are healthy. Here’s what you need to know about periodontal pockets and how to get rid of them.