Dental Assistant Practice Exam

What tissue provides a protective barrier for the tooth and supports both it and the surrounding structures?

1. Gingiva

2. Dentin

3. Cementum

4. Pulp

The correct answer is: Gingiva

The gingiva, commonly known as the gums, is the tissue that provides a protective barrier for the tooth and supports both the tooth itself and the surrounding structures. This tissue is crucial for oral health, as it creates a seal around the teeth, helping to prevent bacteria and food particles from entering areas that could lead to infection or decay. Additionally, the gingiva plays a vital role in maintaining the overall integrity of the periodontal tissues, which include the bone and other structures that hold the teeth in place. It is resilient and can regenerate to some extent if injured, making it essential for maintaining dental health. While other tissues like dentin, cementum, and pulp play significant roles in the structure and function of the tooth, they do not provide the same level of external protection and support offered by the gingiva. Dentin is the layer beneath the enamel and provides strength but is not a protective barrier. Cementum covers the root of the tooth and helps anchor it to the periodontal ligament but does not serve as an external protective tissue. The pulp contains the nerves and blood vessels that nourish the tooth but is located in the center of the tooth, away from external threats. Thus, the gingiva stands out as the primary tissue that fulfills the requirement of providing