Which term describes the band of tissue that is attached to the bone in the mouth?

The term that describes the band of tissue attached to the bone in the mouth is attached gingiva. This specific part of the gingiva is firmly bound to the underlying alveolar bone and aids in providing support to the teeth. Attached gingiva is typically found between the free gingiva (the part of the gum that surrounds the tooth and forms the gumline) and the mucogingival junction (where the gingiva transitions to the alveolar mucosa).

Its presence is crucial for oral health because it helps protect the underlying structures, supports the periodontal attachment, and exhibits a certain amount of keratinization, which enhances its resilience against mechanical forces during activities such as chewing. Understanding this term and its function can greatly assist dental assistants in recognizing healthy gum tissue and distinguishing it from other gingival forms that may not provide the same level of support.