What follows the degradation of the soft tissue attachment?

The loss of alveolar bone follows the degradation of the soft tissue attachment due to periodontal disease. When the soft tissue that supports the tooth begins to degrade, it often signifies the onset of periodontal disease, which affects the structures surrounding the teeth, including the gingiva (gums) and the supporting alveolar bone.

As the soft tissue attachment deteriorates, a process known as attachment loss occurs. This leads to inflammation and, ultimately, the resorption of the alveolar bone that holds the teeth in place. The relationship between soft tissue health and bone integrity is crucial; when the gums are healthy, they provide a stable environment that helps maintain the underlying bone. Conversely, once the soft tissue starts to degrade, the bone also begins to lose its support and structure, leading to conditions such as periodontal disease and tooth mobility.

Other choices, like tooth enamel erosion, formation of calculus, and development of gingivitis, relate to dental health but do not directly follow the degradation of soft tissue attachment. Enamel erosion is primarily due to acid exposure, formation of calculus is a result of plaque accumulation, and gingivitis is an inflammatory condition that may arise but is not a direct consequence of soft tissue degradation in the context of periodontal disease progression.