What dental condition can result from inflammation of the tissue surrounding a tooth?

The condition that arises from inflammation of the tissue surrounding a tooth is periodontitis. This condition progresses from gingivitis, which is an initial form of gum disease characterized by inflammation of the gums without loss of supporting bone. As gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, where the inflammation extends deeper into the bone and supporting structures around the teeth, leading to tissue and bone loss.

Periodontitis serves as a significant dental concern because it can affect the stability of teeth and is associated with various systemic health issues. The inflammation in periodontitis is generally a response to the presence of plaque, bacteria, and the body’s immune response, which can lead to further complications if not properly managed.

In contrast, the other options refer to different conditions: gingivitis is the earlier stage of gum disease; an abscess is a localized collection of pus that can occur due to infection, while canker sores are small, painful ulcers in the mouth that are not directly related to periodontal tissue inflammation. Understanding the progression and distinctions between these conditions aids in effective diagnosis and treatment planning.