The term "gum" can refer to two distinct things:
1. The Gum (Gingiva) in Your Mouth
This refers to the pink tissue surrounding the base of your teeth in your upper and lower jaws. It's also known as the gingiva (plural: gingivae). The health of your gums is crucial for overall oral health. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, can lead to irritation, redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic provide detailed information on gum health and disease. The National Cancer Institute (https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/gums) also defines gums as "the tissue of the upper and lower jaws that surrounds the base of the teeth." Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gums) further describes gums as "the mucosal tissue that lies over the mandible and maxilla inside the mouth."
- Key characteristics: Pink, surrounds teeth, susceptible to disease.
- Medical term: Gingiva
2. Chewing Gum
This is a confection made from a gum base, sweeteners, and flavorings. It's used for chewing and is a popular treat. The FDA regulates the components of chewing gum, specifying the composition of the gum base (https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=172.615). Nicotine gum is even used as a smoking cessation aid (https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/quit-smoking-medications/how-to-use-nicotine-gum.htm).
- Key characteristics: Chewy, flavored, often contains sweeteners.
- Purpose: Chewing, sometimes therapeutic (e.g., nicotine gum).
The context in which "gum" is used determines the meaning.
