What causes Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection. The condition begins with gingivitis or inflammation of the gums. The gum becomes red, swollen and bleed easily. This may progress to Periodontitis, which is loss of bone around the teeth. This can progress to a point where teeth become loose and can be lost when the conditions worsens.
Plaque, a thin, colorless, sticky film containing bacteria, which constantly forms on the the teeth. These bacteria use carbohydrates- sugars and starches – to produce an acid that attacks the enamel covering the teeth. After repeated acid attacks. The enamel can be broken down and a cavity begins. Continued acid attacks eventually dissolve the enamel and penetrate the softer, inner layer of the tooth, where decay can spread rapidly throughout the tooth’s structure. Acid attacks begin immediately after every meal or shack and last about 20 to 30 minutes.
