The leading cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. When the bacteria in your mouth turns into plaque, it can inflame the gums. Plaque reforms daily, combining the bacteria in your mouth with the sugars and starches found in your diet to stick to your teeth. If you have too much plaque, it hardens into tartar (also known as calculus) below the gum line. Tartar requires professional removal from a dental hygienist, usually every six months. If left unremoved, tartar can irritate the gums and gingivitis can begin.
Bleeding, reddened, or swollen gums can be the first warning signs of gingivitis, most commonly noticed during daily brushing or flossing. Healthy gums should be pink whereas gums with gingivitis can appear red to dark red. Although the gums may be irritated, teeth remain firmly in place.
As the gum disease progresses, you may notice sensitivity in your teeth, pain and even bad breath. The tartar build-up around the gums begins to create small pockets between tooth and gum, creating a space for even more bacteria and debris to collect and create infections.
Your immune system will try to subdue the infection, however, the bacteria in plaque create toxins that clash with the usually helpful enzymes in your body, turning your immune system against itself. In response, the body begins to break down the bone and connective tissue that otherwise keep teeth in place. The cycle only worsens as the loss of connective tissue creates more space for debris and bacteria to settle in, causing loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.