Gum disease is caused by accumulation of bacteria (plaque) at the gum line due in part to a lack of proper oral hygiene, breed, genetics, age, and diet.
As the number of bacteria below the gumline increases, bacterial waste products, such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, acids, and other compounds, accumulate and damage tissues. The dog’s own response to this infection (inflammation) also causes tissue breakdown and loss of the tooth’s supporting tissues.
There are 2 forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis