Gingiva
Gingiva
Gingiva (pronounced: jin-jee-vuh), also known as the gums, is the soft tissue in the mouth that covers the alveolar process and surrounds the teeth.
Etymology
The term "gingiva" is derived from the Latin word "gingiva", which means gum.
Definition
The gingiva is part of the oral mucosa that covers the alveolar processes of the maxilla and mandible. It is tightly bound to the underlying bone and helps to resist the friction of food passing over them. Healthy gingiva is usually coral pink, but it may contain melanin, making it appear darker.
Function
The primary function of the gingiva is to provide a seal around the cervix of the tooth. This seal serves to maintain the integrity of the periodontium and protect the alveolar bone. The gingiva also plays a crucial role in oral sensation and aesthetics.
Related Terms
- Periodontium: The specialized tissues that both surround and support the teeth, maintaining them in the maxillary and mandibular bones.
- Alveolar process: The thickened ridge of bone that contains the tooth sockets on bones that hold teeth.
- Maxilla: The upper jawbone, which articulates with all other cranial bones except the mandible.
- Mandible: The lower jawbone, which is the largest, strongest, and lowest bone in the face.
- Oral mucosa: The mucous membrane lining the inside of the mouth.
- Cervix (tooth): The part of a tooth where the crown of a tooth and its root meet.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gingiva
- Wikipedia's article - Gingiva
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