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    Related Topics

    From Digestive System

    Rectum
    Straight section of the colon leading to anus.
    Duodenum
    First portion of the small intestine.
    Ileum
    Final and longest portion of the small intestine.
    Cecum
    First part of large intestine.
    Epiploic Appendages
    Fat-filled pouches attached to colon.
    Esophagus
    Muscular tube conveying food from the pharynx to the stomach.
    Descending Colon
    Vertical segment of the colon on the left side.
    Accessory Pancreatic Duct
    Secondary duct emptying into duodenum.
    Pylorus
    Distal part of stomach leading to duodenum.
    Sublingual Glands
    Salivary glands beneath the tongue.
    Uvula
    Dangling soft tissue at the back of the soft palate.
    Mesocolon
    Peritoneal fold attaching colon to posterior wall.
    Common Hepatic Duct
    Carries bile from liver to bile duct.
    Laryngopharynx
    Lower part of pharynx leading to esophagus.
    Oropharynx
    Middle region of the pharynx behind the oral cavity.
    Splenic Flexure
    Bend between transverse and descending colon.
    Soft Palate
    Muscular posterior part of the roof of the mouth.
    Head of Pancreas
    Widest part of pancreas nestled in duodenum.
    Body
    Main central region of the stomach.
    Peritoneum
    Serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity.
    Haustra
    Pouch-like segments of colon.
    Gallbladder
    Stores and concentrates bile.
    Teniae Coli
    Longitudinal muscle bands of colon.
    Major Duodenal Papilla
    Opening for bile and pancreatic ducts into duodenum.
    Anal Canal
    Terminal part of the large intestine.

    Gingiva

    Reviewed by our medical team

    Gums; soft tissue covering the bones of the jaw.

    Overview

    The gingiva, commonly known as the gums, is the fibrous tissue that surrounds and protects the teeth and underlying alveolar bone. It forms a vital part of the oral cavity and plays a key role in oral hygiene, mastication, and dental health. As part of the mucosal lining of the mouth, the gingiva acts as both a mechanical and immune barrier to pathogens.

    Location

    The gingiva is located in the oral cavity, specifically:

    • Surrounding the cervical portion of the teeth

    • Overlying the alveolar processes of both the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw)

    • Extending from the free gingival margin to the mucogingival junction, where it meets the alveolar mucosa

    It is divided into:

    • Free (marginal) gingiva: Forms the soft tissue wall of the gingival sulcus

    • Attached gingiva: Firmly bound to the underlying alveolar bone and tooth cementum

    • Interdental papilla: The gingiva between adjacent teeth, filling the interdental space

    Structure

    The gingiva is composed of specialized mucosa and connective tissue:

    • Epithelium: Stratified squamous epithelium; keratinized in attached and marginal gingiva for increased protection

    • Lamina propria: Dense connective tissue containing collagen fibers, fibroblasts, blood vessels, and immune cells

    • Gingival fibers: A network of collagen fibers (e.g., dentogingival, alveologingival, and circular fibers) that help maintain tissue position and integrity

    The gingiva is richly vascularized and innervated, receiving blood from branches of the facial, maxillary, and lingual arteries, and sensory innervation from branches of the trigeminal nerve.

    Function

    The gingiva serves several essential functions:

    • Protection: Acts as a barrier against mechanical trauma, bacteria, and toxins

    • Tooth support: Anchors the teeth by stabilizing their position within the alveolar bone

    • Sealing mechanism: Forms a tight junction around the tooth to prevent the entry of pathogens

    • Sensory feedback: Provides tactile and pain sensation to detect harmful stimuli

    Physiological Role(s)

    The gingiva plays key roles in oral and digestive physiology:

    • Maintaining oral homeostasis: Supports immune surveillance via lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells in the lamina propria

    • Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF): A plasma-derived fluid in the gingival sulcus that contains immune cells and enzymes to combat microbial invasion

    • Assisting mastication: Provides a stable platform for efficient chewing and helps direct food away from the gingival margin

    • Healing capacity: Rapidly regenerates after minor injuries, helping maintain oral mucosal integrity

    Clinical Significance

    The gingiva is a focal point in oral and periodontal health. Common clinical issues include:

    • Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gingiva due to plaque accumulation; characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding

    • Periodontitis: Progression of untreated gingivitis leading to destruction of supporting structures (bone, periodontal ligament), and possible tooth loss

    • Gingival recession: Exposure of tooth roots due to tissue loss, often associated with aggressive brushing or periodontal disease

    • Gingival hyperplasia: Overgrowth of gum tissue caused by medications (e.g., phenytoin, cyclosporine), inflammation, or hormonal changes

    • Gingival abscess: A localized infection in the gingival tissue, often due to trapped debris or trauma

    • Oral cancers: Malignant lesions can occur in the gingiva, requiring biopsy and early intervention

    Prevention of gingival disease relies on proper oral hygiene, regular dental care, and management of systemic conditions that affect periodontal health.

    Did you know? The esophagus is approximately 25 cm long and transports food from your mouth to your stomach.