Gingiva
Introduction
Gingiva is the oral mucosa surrounding the neck of each tooth forming the gums.
Structure and Function of the Gingiva
Gingiva is mucosal tissue over alveolar bone. It has a stratified squamous epithelium, with some keratinisation. It resists friction of food during mastication by being tightly bound to the underlying bone. It recedes with age, exposing the cervical part of the tooth. It is usually salmon pink in healthy animals. A colour change indicates pathology.
Mucogingival line
The mucogingival line is the junction between the attached gingiva and the free alveolar mucosa
Vasculature and Innervation of the Gingiva
The gingiva is supplied by the superior and inferior alveolar arteries.
There are blood vessels in the dental pulp cavity and a single branch in each major elevation of the crown.
Innervation is from the trigeminal nerve (CN V).
Species Differences
Canine
Some breeds of dog have dark gums, e.g. chow chow.
| Gingiva Learning Resources | |
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 Test your knowledge using flashcard type questions |
Teeth and Gingiva Flashcards |
 Selection of relevant PowerPoint tutorials |
Histology tutorial on the oral cavity |
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