Gums (Gingiva)
The tissue of the upper and lower jaws that surrounds the base of the teeth. Also called gums.
Part of: Periodontium
About the Gums (Gingiva)
The gums (gingiva) cover and protect the ligament and the neck of the tooth, and are usually the only visible part of the periodontium. The gums fit tightly around the teeth like a collar. They turn slightly inward where they meet the teeth, forming a narrow groove.
The gum tissue can easily become inflamed, causing it to slightly detach from the neck of the tooth. The groove between the tooth and the gum can then deepen to form what is referred to as a pocket. Bacteria rapidly build up in these pockets.
Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) can be visible as bleeding gums, but often does not cause any symptoms. Sometimes gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, an inflammation of the periodontium that attacks the gums as well as the bone of the jaw. Advanced periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose and fall out, or require them to be removed… Read more about the Gums