Gum Disease

What is the cause of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by poor oral hygiene that results in plaque calcifying on the teeth close to the gum to form calculus (tartar).  This protects bacteria to proliferate in close contact with the gums and causing local inflammation.  Should this process not being reversed by means of thorough cleaning and change in oral hygiene habits, this leads to the breakdown of the bone supporting the tooth.

Stages of Gum Disease:

Healthy gums and supporting bone

Plaque forms close to gum


Inflammation of the gum margins--possible bleeding when brushing

Tartar formation

Gum in contact with bone inflamed

Bone starts to break down

Pocket is forming where loose gum surrounds tooth.

Tartar forms further down the surface of the root

Bleeding when brushing likely

Gum recedes and tooth neck exposed.

Tartar and infection still present

Bone further destroyed and tooth may become loose

Root completely exposed

Gum severely infected


Bone support destroyed and tooth very loose.