The mouth is host to a variety of bacteria, which, although live there naturally, can cause serious problems if allowed to multiply. These bacteria build up and create waste products that become the white, sticky substance you know as plaque. If this plaque isn't cleaned from the teeth on a regular basis, it becomes tartar – which can't be removed without a dental professional.The build-up of tartar, plaque andbacteria can cause the gums to become inflamed, then infected and eventually to draw back (or recede) from the teeth. According to a research study published in the Drug Invention Today, swollen and bleeding gums are early signs that your gums are infected with bacteria. If nothing is done, the infection can spread. It can destroy the structures that support your teeth in your jawbone. Eventually, your teeth can become so loose that they have to be extracted. “Peri” means around and “odontal” refers to teeth. Periodontal diseases are infections of the structures around the teeth.