Why do I have gums?

Your gums are very important because they hold your teeth in place. When gums are healthy, the gum tissue fits like a cuff around each tooth. When someone has periodontal (gum) disease, the tissue pulls away from the tooth. As the disease worsens, the tissue and bone that support the tooth are destroyed. Over time, teeth may fall out or need to be removed.

You have gums to help keep your teeth in place. Gums are the delicate pink flesh that surrounds the base of the teeth and rests over the bones of your jaws to hug your tooth tightly around the neck. They include a group of structures that surround your teeth and provide a seal of protection.  The periodontal ligament is made of bundles of connective tissue fibers that anchor teeth within the jaws and allow your teeth to chew and bite. Each bunch attaches to the root covering of the teeth. The other end is embedded in your tooth’s socket.