There are two types of gum infection: gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontal disease begins with inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), which can damage deeper structures and progress to inflammation of the tissues supporting the teeth (periodontitis). Dental plaque, made up of food scraps, saliva and bacteria, is the main cause, causing cavities and bacteria under the gums, leading to periodontal inflammation. The mineralisation of plaque with minerals from saliva creates tartar, encouraging bacterial multiplication and causing inflammation of the gums, characterised by swelling, redness, pain and bleeding. If left untreated, bacterial proliferation damages deeper structures, creating periodontal pockets and bone resorption, leading to the loss of teeth that no longer have bone support, known as periodontal disease.