What is one of the primary causes of periodontal disease?

• A. Bacteria (biofilm)
• B. Virus
• C. Genetic alone
• D. Trauma

Answer: (A)

Bacteria in dental biofilm are the primary trigger for periodontal disease. The bacteria that form plaque release toxins and stimulate the body's inflammatory response, leading to gingival inflammation and, over time, destruction of the supporting tissues around teeth. While other factors like genetics, systemic health, smoking, and trauma can influence how severe or how quickly the disease progresses, they do not initiate the disease on their own. Viruses are not considered the main cause of periodontal disease, and trauma may worsen existing damage but does not start the disease. So, the presence of bacterial biofilm is the most important factor driving periodontal disease.