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Periodontitis is primarily an inflammatory condition affecting the gum tissue that surrounds the neck of each tooth. This condition occurs when the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, become inflamed due to the presence of bacterial plaque. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to gum recession, loss of tooth attachment, and even tooth loss. The health of the gum tissue is critical in maintaining the overall integrity of the periodontal structures, which include ligaments and bones that support the teeth.

The other options refer to different parts of the tooth. The pulp contains nerve cells and blood vessels, which are crucial for the tooth's vitality but are not involved in periodontitis. Dentin is the layer beneath the enamel and is primarily responsible for the tooth's structure and support, but inflammation related to periodontitis does not originate in this area. The enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth, and while it is important for dental health, it does not play a direct role in the inflammatory process associated with periodontitis. Each of these tissues has distinct functions and conditions related to them, but periodontitis specifically targets the inflammatory response of the gum tissue.