Periodontal disease is a very common infectious problem especially in the United States.
It is the single major cause of tooth loss in adults. Gingivitis is an early phase of periodontal disease where plaque composed of sticky deposits of bacteria, mucus, and food particles are on the teeth. This plaque can cause the gums to become swollen and infected. The gums then become red, shiny, and bleed easily. Sometimes there is pain but often there is no pain.