Dentoword : Today's Word is 'Gingiva'

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Today's word is "Gingiva"

Gingiva : 'The Protecting Cover Of Our Teeth'.

In the previous blog, we learned about the oral mucosa, and one of the most important part to focus on is the gingiva. So, let's dive deeper into the significance of gingiva. Gingiva is also known as the gum. It covers the tooth and protects its root from direct exposure to the environment. So, let's discuss the most important tissue in our oral cavity : the gingiva.

Definition :

The gingiva is the part of the oral mucosa that covers the alveolar process of the jaw and surrounds the necks of the teeth.

Types of Gingiva :

1.Marginal Gingiva: 

• The marginal or unattached gingiva is the terminal border of the gingiva that surrounds the tooth like a collar. 
• It is demarcated by the free gingival groove from the adjacent attached gingiva.

2. Attached Gingiva :

• It is continuous with the marginal gingiva.
• It is firm, resilient, and tightly bound to the underlying periosteum of the alveolar bone.
• It is demarcated from the alveolar mucosa by the mucogingival junction.

3. Interdental Gingiva :

•  Interdental gingiva is present in the interproximal space beneath the area of tooth contact.

Functions of  Gingiva :

• Mechanical ,chemical ,water and microbial barrier.
• Cell signaling function
• Aesthetic 

Microscopic features :

1. The gingiva is composed of an outer surface of stratified squamous epithelium and an underlying central core of connective tissue, which includes collagen fibers and ground substance.

2. Gingival fibers are mainly type I collagen. They include :

•  gingivodental fibers, 
• circular fibers, 
• transeptal fibers.

3. The color of the gingiva is coral pink, and stippling is present on the attached gingiva and the core of the interdental papilla, giving it an orange peel appearance.

4.Blood supply of the gingiva: 

• Supraperiosteal arterioles, 
• Vessels of the periodontal ligament, 
•  Arterioles that emerge from the crest of the interdental septa.

Problems Faced By The Gingiva :

• Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums due to external factors like plaque accumulation or other infections. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding gums during brushing and flossing.

• Gingival Recession: Caused by traumatic brushing, age progression, or plaque accumulation. Receding gums can cause sensitivity and increase the risk of decay and infection.

• Periodontitis: A severe gum infection characterized by pocket formation and bone loss, leading to tooth instability.

• Gingival Abscess: A pocket of pus formed in the gum region due to bacterial infection or the presence of foreign material.

Care and Maintenance Of Gingiva :

Here are some tips for maintaining healthy gums:

• Gentle Brushing : Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Flossing : Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.

• Regular Dental Check-ups : Professional cleanings are essential for removing plaque that brushing can't eliminate.

• Massaging the Gums : Massage your gums to stimulate blood circulation, which helps fight gum disease and prevent its progression.For a demonstration,check out this gum massaging video.

• Eat a Balanced Diet : Ensure your diet includes a variety of nutrients to support gum health.

• Stop Smoking : Smoking is harmful to your gums and overall oral health.

• Avoid Harmful Habits : Refrain from habits such as poking pens or pencils in your mouth, and avoid biting on your gums.

Conclusion: 

We often focus on keeping our teeth clean and healthy but tend to neglect the health of our gums. Starting today, in addition to brushing and flossing, make it a habit to regularly massage your gums. By understanding and caring for our gums, we can improve their health, protect and support our teeth, and maintain our beautiful smiles.

Request to Readers: 

Did you like today’s post? If you have any questions or queries, please let me know in the comment section. If you have any problems with your gums, don't forget to make an appointment with your dentist today.Thank you for reading today’s post! Keep reading and keep smiling!

References :

Carranza's Clinical Periodontology-Ebook: Third South Asia Edition,Chini Doraiswami Dwarakanath

Elsevier.