How does dental calculus contribute to periodontal disease progression?

• A. Calculus directly causes tooth loss by mechanical damage to root surfaces.
• B. Calculus provides a rough surface for plaque accumulation, fosters subgingival biofilm, triggers gingival inflammation, and promotes pocket formation and bone loss.
• C. Calculus dissolves in saliva and has no effect.
• D. Calculus only affects esthetics, not inflammation.

Answer: (B)