Each tube contains 1.7% hydrogen peroxide which decreases plaque (mass of bacteria and microorganisms) and the development of gum disease. -The active ingredient in Perio-Care gel is hydrogen peroxide. The bubbling effect of peroxide helps eliminate pathogens in the most aggressive forms of gum diseases. The oxidizing property of hydrogen peroxide makes it difficult for anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that usually causes gum problems) to survive. -Hydrogen Peroxide also breaks down the slime layer - a protective biofilm around the bacterial cell wall. Ten to fifteen minutes of hydrogen peroxide gel application in the gums and periodontal pockets helps destroy almost all the bacterial cells by breaking their cell wall.