[Periodontitis is one of the most commonly occurring inflammatory diseases].

Periodontitis is a common inflammatory disease characterized by breakdown of the structure supporting the tooth. The disease, which is caused by bacteria colonizing the root surface, occurs with a marked difference in individual susceptibility and presents as chronic and aggressive forms of the disease. A number of medical disorders act as predisposing factors, and periodontitis may influence the course of some diseases, including coronary heart disease and diabetes.