When bacteria in the gums multiply, a life-threatening dental problem called periodontal disease creates a short way down to bodywide inflammation leading massive oral destruction and serious medical issues. The proliferation of bacteria in the mouth that leads to periodontal disease is caused by certain factors. One is smoking which can slow down the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the gum tissue and delays healing, meaning even a small amount of bacteria can quickly become a periodontal disease. Genetics also play a big role as reports showed that up to 30 percent of the population may be genetically more susceptible to gum disease like with some inherited conditions, such as Down syndrome and Marfan syndrome, a higher likelihood of periodontal disease is at stake. Another thing is stress. People who have high levels of chronic stress produce more of the hormone cortisol, which has been linked to gum disease. Periodontal disease and diabetes make an unfortunate circle. Diabetics have a higher risk for developing infections, including periodontal diseases. An infection, such as periodontal disease, can impair the ability to process or utilize insulin, which may cause diabetes to be more difficult to control and infection to be more severe. Poor nutrition among people who consume less than the recommended dietary allowance for calcium and vitamin C have slightly higher rates of periodontal disease. This is probably related to the tissue's ability to heal itself.