Inflammation of the periodontal structures is called what?

• A. Gingivitis
• B. Periodontal disease
• C. Cavities
• D. Malocclusion

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is the term used for inflammation affecting the tissues that support the teeth. Periodontal disease describes inflammatory conditions of the periodontium—the gums, periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. It encompasses problems that can start with gingival inflammation and, if untreated, progress to damage of the deep supporting tissues around teeth. Among the options, inflammation limited to the gums is gingivitis, but that only involves one part of the periodontium. Cavities refer to tooth decay, and malocclusion refers to misalignment of the bite. So the best term for inflammation of the periodontal structures is periodontal disease, which captures the broader range of inflammatory issues affecting the supporting tissues around teeth.