If plaque is allowed to accumulate up to more than four weeks, dental stains are possible. Plaque is so soft that even the softest toothbrush with gentle pressure will remove it. A person would not have to use great force to remove plaque. Brushing your teeth will not completely rid them of plaque. If left untreated plaque will eventually turn into tooth decay. "Tooth decay is the second most common disease in America, second only to the common cold."(Harris) Plaque will create tiny holes in a persons tooth. In time those little hole will turn into big holes or cavities. Cavities are very pain full.
There are so many periodontal diseases a person could get by not taking proper care of his oral health. Periodontal diseases are serious bacterial infections that do destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold persons teeth in his mouth. All periodontal diseases are started with bacterial plaque. "Periodontal disease can be classified into two categories: gingivitis and peridontis. Gingivitis is defined as inflammation of the gingiva, and is a reversible condition."(Cochran) Gingivitis symptoms include red, swollen, and tender gums. A person with gingivitis gums will often bleed while brushing. If the case of gingivitis is really severe there will be pus around the teeth and gums. Studies have shown that tobacco use maybe one of the most significant factors in the development and progression of periodontal diseases. If left untreated it will lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is not genetic. Periodontal disease maybe passed from parent to child or from couple to couple because the bacteria are passed through saliva. A person's chance of developing a periodontal disease increases, as the person grows older. "More than half of the people age 55 and older has a periodontal disease." (Cochran) Periodontal disease may increase the risk for respiratory diseases.