Definition

1. Noun:
   • The firm, pink tissue (covered by mucous membrane) that surrounds the bases of the teeth and lines the alveolar ridges of the jaws.

Usage

• The term "gingiva" is a formal, anatomical term used primarily in medical, dental, and scientific contexts. It refers specifically to the gums in the mouth.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Healthy gingiva is firm and pale pink.
  • The dentist examined the patient's gingiva for signs of inflammation.
  • Periodontal disease often begins with an infection of the gingiva.

Advanced Usage

• "Attached gingiva": The part of the gingiva that is tightly bound to the underlying alveolar bone and tooth cementum.
  • The attached gingiva is resistant to the friction of chewing.
• "Free gingiva" (or marginal gingiva): The unattached collar of gingiva surrounding the tooth, forming the gingival sulcus.
  • The free gingiva creates a small space around each tooth.

Variants and Related Words

• Gingival (adj): Pertaining to the gingiva.
  • Gingival health is crucial for overall oral hygiene.
• Gingivitis (n): Inflammation of the gingiva.
  • Bleeding during brushing can be a sign of gingivitis.

Synonyms

• Gum: The common, non-technical term for gingiva.
  • You should brush your teeth and gums twice a day.

Related Phrases

• Gingival recession: A condition where the margin of the gingiva wears away, exposing more of the tooth.
  • Gingival recession can lead to tooth sensitivity.
• Gingival sulcus: The shallow space between the free gingiva and the tooth surface.
  • The dental probe measures the depth of the gingival sulcus.

Noun

1. the tissue (covered by mucous membrane) of the jaws that surrounds the bases of the teeth