Gingiva

The gingiva is the part of the oral mucosa that surrounds the cervical portions of the teeth and covers the alveolar processes of the maxilla and mandible. It forms an important component of the periodontium and provides protection and support to the underlying periodontal structures.

The gingiva is divided into three main parts:

• Free (marginal) gingiva, which is the unattached gingiva surrounding the neck of the tooth and forming the gingival margin. It creates a shallow space called the gingival sulcus between the tooth and gingiva.

• Attached gingiva firmly bound to the underlying periosteum of the alveolar bone, providing resistance to mechanical forces during mastication.

• Interdental gingiva (interdental papilla) the gingival tissue occupying the space between adjacent teeth.

The gingiva is covered by stratified squamous epithelium, which may be keratinised in areas subjected to friction. Blood supply is mainly from branches of the maxillary and facial arteries, while sensory innervation is provided by branches of the trigeminal nerve.

Functions of the gingiva include to protect the deeper periodontal tissues, provide a seal around the teeth, resist trauma during chewing, and contribute to oral defence against infection.

Clinically, inflammation of the gingiva is termed gingivitis, which may progress to periodontitis if untreated, leading to destruction of supporting periodontal tissues and tooth loss.