Which medical term is used to describe the gum tissue around the teeth?

The term that describes the gum tissue around the teeth is "gingiva." This anatomical term specifically refers to the soft tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth, playing a critical role in oral health. The gingiva is an essential part of the periodontium, which includes other structures like the bone and periodontal ligaments. Healthy gingiva is vital for protecting the underlying bone and is influential in preventing dental diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Frenulum refers to a small fold of tissue that restricts the movement of an organ or keeps it in place, such as the mucous membrane under the tongue or on the gums. Granulocyte pertains to a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response but is not related to gum tissue. Fulgurant, on the other hand, describes something that is bright or flashing, often used in contexts related to light and not relevant to dental terminology.