Gingival margin

The gingival margin is the edge of the gum that surrounds the neck of each tooth. It is the part of the gum that you can see around the teeth in the mouth. This margin forms a small cuff or collar around the tooth and creates a shallow space called the gingival sulcus between the gum and the tooth surface. In healthy gums, the gingival margin is firm, pale pink, and closely attached around the tooth to help protect deeper tissues from bacteria and food debris. If plaque accumulates around this area, the gingival margin can become red, swollen, or bleed easily, which is commonly seen in gingivitis. Recession of the gingival margin may expose the root surface of the tooth and lead to sensitivity.