Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, affects the structures of the mouth that support the teeth. It is caused when bacteria in the mouth forms a sticky film (plaque) on the teeth and gums that is not properly cleaned off, which then hardens into a crust known as tartar. The bacteria in the plaque and tartar causes infection that can lead to pain, gum damage, bone loss and even tooth loss if not properly cared for, and will only worsen with time. Gum disease can lead to heart disease, low birth weight, and more severe diabetes.