Gum disease or periodontal disease, a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue, is the major cause of about 70 percent of adult tooth loss, affecting three out of four persons at some point in their life.

 

Bacterial plaque - a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth -  is rexonized as the primary cause of gum disease.  Specific periodontal diseases may be associated with specific bacterial types.  If plaque isn't removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough, pours substance called calculus (also known as tartar).  Toxins (poisons) producedand released by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums.  These toxins cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth, creating periodontal pockets which fill with even more toxins and bacteria.  As the disease progresses, pockets extend deeper and the bacteria moves down until the bone that holds the tooth in place is destroyed.  The tooth eventually will fall out or require extraction.