Healthy Gums

The roots of all teeth are sturdily attached to the bone of the sockets and the gums by many tiny, but very strong ligaments which are called the periodontal ligaments.

These give each tooth a sturdy attachment and simultaneously a suspension which allows minimal movements in any direction. Nerve endings in the ligament constantly monitor the forces on each tooth. This information is conveyed to the brain, which in turn responds by regulating the bite forces to avoid damage to the periodontal ligaments.

In other words, in a healthy condition, the gums have a strong attachment to the root and underlying bone. The gum is however not attached all the way up to the edge. There is a shallow groove under the edge of the gum, called ‘the SULCUS’.

Even a healthy person has lots of different micro-organisms in the mouth. According to microbiologists we have around 400 different types of bacteria in the oral cavity.

In a healthy condition, these bacteria are not destructive to our tissues, but live in harmony with, and help our digestive processes. The gums do not bleed, are light pink and are strong.