What condition may be caused by a newly placed restoration that alters occlusion?

The condition that may be caused by a newly placed restoration altering occlusion is apical periodontitis. When a dental restoration improperly aligns the bite or alters occlusion, it can lead to excessive forces on the tooth. This increased stress can irritate the pulp within the tooth, potentially causing inflammation and subsequent infection in the surrounding periodontal tissue.

Apical periodontitis specifically refers to the inflammation of the apex of the tooth's root, often a direct consequence of pulpitis due to infection or trauma. If occlusal adjustments are not adequately made after placing a restoration, this could trigger or exacerbate apical periodontitis, as the inflammation may result from the resulting maladjustment in bite forces.

Other conditions listed, such as apical abscess, while related, typically occur as a progression from apical periodontitis rather than as an immediate consequence of altered occlusion. Pulpal necrosis can also develop from irreversible pulpitis but isn't directly related to occlusal changes. Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition of the gums and is not directly linked to the placement of a dental restoration affecting the tooth's occlusion.

Thus, the relationship between altered occlusion and the onset of apical periodontitis underscores the importance of careful