The correct answer is Periodontitis.

- Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gingiva, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone.
- The hallmark of periodontitis is the increased breakdown of collagen in the connective tissues that support the teeth.
- This breakdown is primarily due to the body's immune response to bacterial plaque accumulation, which leads to the activation of enzymes like matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade collagen fibers.

- In contrast, gingivitis is a milder form of gum inflammation limited to the gingiva without destruction of the underlying connective tissue or bone.
- Dental caries involves demineralization of the tooth enamel and dentin but does not affect the collagen in supporting tissues.
- Oral candidiasis is a fungal infection of the mucosal surfaces and does not induce collagen breakdown in periodontal tissues.

Reference: Newman, Carranza’s Clinical Periodontology, 13th Edition, Chapter 2, Page 35-40