HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the gingival cervix?

1. A type of gum disease

2. The subgingival space between the gingival crest and the epithelial attachment

3. A structure that supports the teeth

4. The outermost layer of gingival tissue

The correct answer is: The subgingival space between the gingival crest and the epithelial attachment

The gingival cervix, also known as the cervical line, refers to the specific anatomical area located at the junction of the tooth and the gum (gingiva). This region is crucial because it marks the boundary between the gingival crest and the epithelial attachment within the subgingival space. Understanding this space is essential in periodontal health, as it provides insights into how gum tissue interacts with the teeth. This area is significant in dental anatomy and periodontal assessment because it plays a role in maintaining periodontal health. Issues in this area can lead to periodontal disease, which can compromise the stability of the teeth. The other options, while related to dental health, do not accurately define the gingival cervix; they refer to different phenomena or structures within oral health. For example, a type of gum disease does not reflect the anatomical characteristics of the gingival cervix, and the outermost layer of gingival tissue pertains to a broader anatomical structure rather than a specific relationship to the tooth's surface.