Gums

Gums or gingiva are part of the soft tissue lining of the mouth. They surround the teeth and provide a seal around them. Compared with the soft tissue linings of the lips and cheeks, most of the gums are tightly bound to the underlying bone which helps resist the friction of food passing over them.

Anatomy

The gums are divided into two main areas: the attached gingiva and the unattached or free gingiva. The attached gingiva is tightly bound to the underlying bone and the cementum of the root surface to provide a seal around the tooth. The free gingiva forms the soft wall of the gingival sulcus.

Health and disease

Healthy gums are usually coral pink, but may contain melanin, making them appear darker. Changes in color, particularly increased redness, together with swelling or bleeding of the gums, can be signs of gum disease.

Gum disease is a common condition where the gums become swollen, sore or infected. It's estimated to affect more than half of all adults in the UK to some degree and most people experience it at least once. It's much less common in children.

If gum disease is treated in its early stages, it's completely reversible. If it's not treated, a condition called periodontitis can develop. This can lead to loss of teeth.

Prevention and treatment

Good oral hygiene and regular dental examinations are the best way to prevent gum disease. The main treatment for gum disease is a professional clean to remove the build-up of plaque and tartar. This can be done by a dentist or dental hygienist.

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