Periodontal disease is an inflammation, swelling and bleeding of the gum tissue caused by harmful bacteria that naturally coats everyone's teeth. The anaerobic bacteria forms a sticky whitish film on the teeth's surface called plaque. If the plaque is not removed or prevented thoroughly everyday, the bacteria found in plaque can produce toxins that can cause gum irritation. These can encourage the presence of red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Eventually, the toxins produced by bacteria can destroy the gum tissue, causing it to separate from the tooth and gradually form dental pockets. These pockets hold more bacteria and detach even further. This can be the beginning phase of the periodontitis, an irreversible gum disease stage that can destroy the bone and soft tissue that support the teeth.