What causes gum disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease is caused by bacteria. If bacteria is left along the gumline, your gums will become irritated and cause an inflammation reaction. The gums will then bleed and swell, allowing the bacteria to go even deeper under the gumline. If this is allowed to continue, the bone will begin to demineralize and dissolve. As the bone dissolves around the teeth, the teeth become unsupported and will fall out. Unfortunately, pain does not occur until the final stages of the disease and treatment at that time has very little chance of being successful. If your gums bleed regularly, seek treatment immediately.