Because of the fact that bacteria is constantly forming in our mouths, everyone develops plaque. For bacteria to grow, they use the ingredients found in our diet and saliva to grow. When the acids from plaque attack teeth after eating, the bacterial plaque causes cavities. The tooth enamel can break down and a cavity may form with the repeated acid attacks. The gums around your teeth may become irritated when plaque is left no removed. This may lead to red, bleeding and swollen gums – an early gum disease condition called gingivitis and may advance to periodontal disease called periodontitis that leads to receding gums, loose or mobile teeth and the worst of all, a major loss of teeth.