Gingiva, also known as gums, is the pink-colored keratinized mucosa that surrounds and protects the teeth. It is part of the periodontium, which includes the investing and supporting structures of the teeth. Gingiva is composed of a dense, fibrous connective tissue that is mostly water, some organic material, and very little inorganic material. There are three types of gingiva:

• Marginal Gingiva: This is a strip of soft tissue that surrounds the neck (bottom) of the teeth. It is not bound to the teeth and can be moved away from them by a dentist using a tiny ruler (probe).

• Attached Gingiva: This is a second layer of soft tissue that is not movable by a dentist like marginal gingiva.

• Interdental Gingiva: This is the tissue between the teeth, also known as papilla.

The gingiva is perfused by multiple small arteries that originate from branches coming off of the carotid artery and receives innervation by nerves derived from the mandibular and maxillary divisions of the trigeminal nerve. The gingival epithelium plays a crucial role in the innate immune response to infectious inflammation in periodontal tissue. Gingivitis is a common condition that occurs when bacteria, plaque, and tartar build-up on teeth, causing infection. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a serious form of gum disease that affects more than 47% of adults over age 30 in the U.S.