What is the process called that describes the sequence of events during the development of periodontal disease?

The process that describes the sequence of events during the development of periodontal disease is called pathogenesis. This term encompasses the biological mechanisms and changes that lead to the onset and progression of periodontal disease. Pathogenesis involves the interaction between pathogenic microorganisms, the host's immune response, and various risk factors that influence tissue health and disease. Understanding pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies in periodontology.

The other terms have distinct meanings: progression refers to the advancement or worsening of disease, manifestation indicates how the disease presents or shows symptoms, and inflammation is a response of the immune system that can be a component of the disease process but does not encompass the entirety of how periodontal disease develops. Pathogenesis provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex events leading to periodontal disease.