Most of the hundreds of different types of bacteria in a healthy mouth are completely harmless. However, when the teeth are not correctly cleaned each day, the bacteria can grow and build upon your teeth resulting in periodontitis.
A dental plaque is formed first, and if it is not removed by brushing, the bacteria deposit minerals within the plaque over time. This is known as tartar and encourages more bacterial growth toward the root of the tooth. This triggers the body’s immune response to this bacterial growth leading to inflammation in the gums. Also, certain factors put you at a higher risk of periodontitis, including smoking, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hormonal changes in women (such as when menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause), which can make the gums more sensitive, immunosuppressive.