What causes Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)?
The mouth contains a large number and variety of bacteria that form a sticky film called plaque. In this film, the bacteria that cause periodontal diseases create toxins (poison), which irritate the gums and bone. Even if you brush and clean between your teeth every day, you may not completely remove plaque, especially around the gumline. Plaque that is not removed can harden into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. The tartar can only be removed when your teeth are cleaned in the dental office. Although tartar that forms above the gumline has not been shown to cause periodontal disease, tartar on teeth below (under) the gumline makes it more difficult to remove plaque. This can create conditions that lead to chronic inflammation and infection.
