Periodontal disease is a serious condition that affects far too many people in the US. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 46% of US adults (or 65 million people) are affected. The primary cause of gum disease is plaque buildup (bacterial deposits) which is usually the result of insufficient or improper oral hygiene. But other factors are at play, too. Knowing what the risk factors of periodontal (gum) disease are can help you determine whether or not you need to be more vigilant about preventive care to keep your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.