Toxins produced by bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. By remaining in place, toxins cause gum arising from the teeth and periodontal pockets form, which are filled with more toxins and bacteria.

As the disease progresses, the pockets stretch and plaque penetrates more and more until the bone supporting the teeth is destroyed. Eventually, the tooth will fall off or need to be extracted.

Symptoms and warning signs
Occasionally periodontal disease can progress without any symptoms or pain. During a regular dental checkup, the dentist looks for signs of periodontal disease, as yet undetected disease may be treated before it progresses.
* Gum soft, swollen or red.
* Bleeding while brushing or flossing.
* Gums that emerged from the teeth
* Loose or separated
* Pus between the gum and tooth
* Bad breath continued
* Changed the way the teeth fit together when biting
* Change in the fit of partial dentures.

Many people think that periodontal disease is an adult problem. However, studies indicate that gingivitis (the first stage of periodontal disease) is nearly universally in children and adolescents. Advanced forms of periodontal disease are much rarer in children than in adults, but can occur.

To ensure healthy teeth as an adult, you must establish good oral habits as a child. Parents can encourage good dental health habits at home. For example, parents may reward children with visits from the tooth fairy or the tooth fairy not only when you drop a tooth, but when the child passes the dental exam.

Signs of periodontal disease

There are four basic signs that will tell you of periodontal disease in your child:
* Bleeding: bleeding gums when brushing, using dental floss or at any other time.
* Inflammation: swollen and red gums
* Recession: Gums that have receded from the teeth, sometimes exposing roots.
* Bad breath, bad breath that will not go away by brushing or flossing.