Research suggests that men who have gum disease (also called periodontal disease) are more likely to have erectile dysfunction (ED) than those who do not.

The milder form of gum disease is called gingivitis, which occurs when there is inflammation or infection in the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis worsens into periodontitis. The infection spreads to the structures that hold the teeth in place. Once this happens, teeth loosen and fall out.

Common symptoms of gum disease include: