In a recent study, it was discovered that over seventy-five percent of Americans age thirty-five and older have some form of gum disease. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, which is a disorder involving inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a film of bacteria that coats the teeth. When plaque hardens, or calcifies, it turns into a tartar, or calculus. Plaque and tartar build up and create pockets of bacteria between the teeth and gums. It may result in gums becoming inflamed or swollen. This can also cause bleeding of the gums.
             If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is the second stage of gum disease and more serious. Periodontal disease causes destruction of bone and structures supporting the teeth (www.umanitoba.ca/outreach/wisdomtooth/stagesof.htm).
             Naturally, poor oral hygiene is a very common risk factor for being diagnosed with gingivitis. However, other factors may contribute to this gum disease. Heredity is a common factor leading to gingivitis. Bacteria may be more harmful to some people's gums than others. Various medications cause dry mouth and reduce the cleansing ability of saliva. This causes plaque and tartar to build up more easily.
             Another cause leading to gum disease is the use of tobacco. It slows the healing process of gums causing bacteria to destroy tissue. Also, people with diabetes are at a greater risk of developing a gum disease. Diabetes could possibly cause thickening of blood vessels, which makes it more difficult to carry nutrients to the gum tissue. In addition, pregnant women become more prone to detrimental effects of plaque and bacteria because of hormonal changes during pregnancy (www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/DS/00363.html).
             People affected by periodontal disease are also at a greater risk of serious medical conditions. Studies reveal there is a link between bacteria in the mouth and c
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