gum disease

gum disease Inflammation of the soft tissue (gingiva) and abnormal loss of the bone surrounding the teeth. Gum disease is caused by toxins secreted by bacteria in the plaque that accumulates over time along the gum line. Plaque is a mixture of food, saliva, and bacteria. Early symptoms of gum disease include gum bleeding, and pain is a symptom of more advanced gum disease, as the loss of bone around the teeth leads to the formation of gum pockets. Bacteria in these pockets cause gum infection, swelling, pain, and further bone destruction. See also acute membranous gingivitis; gingivitis.