Translation guide
The medical term for the gums. In everyday English, people usually say 'gums'.
The standard, everyday word for gums. Used in casual and polite contexts.
Referring to the gums in a clinical or anatomical setting
The formal medical term for gingiva. Used by dentists and in medical literature.
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gingiva.
Gingival recession is observed.
A rare, highly technical term for gingiva, sometimes used in anatomical contexts. Not common even in medical settings.
歯茎 (はぐき) is the everyday word for gums, while 歯肉 (しにく) is the medical term. Use 歯茎 in normal conversation and 歯肉 in formal medical contexts.
If you're talking to a dentist or reading a medical document, 歯肉 is appropriate. Otherwise, stick with 歯茎.
Study the structure of the gingiva.