Most dental problems are caused by bacteria, including damage caused to the gums surrounding the teeth and damage to the teeth themselves. Tissue surrounding the teeth includes the soft gums and the bone. Bacteria that hide along the gum line or in tartar that builds up on teeth attack those surrounding tissues, causing inflammation typically seen as bleeding. As this continues, it can melt the bone around the teeth causing root exposure and pockets where more bacteria can hide. This in turn leads to the loosening and eventual loss of teeth. Good dental hygiene is the most important treatment, including regular cleaning and check-ups starting from a very young age.