Which type of gingiva is attached to the teeth?

The attached gingiva is the correct answer because this type of gingiva is firmly bound to the underlying alveolar bone and is connected to the teeth through the periodontal ligament. This attachment provides stability and support to the teeth, helping to maintain a healthy structure in the oral cavity. It typically extends from the mucogingival junction to the base of the gingival sulcus, and its presence is crucial in preventing periodontal disease.

In contrast, free gingiva, also known as marginal gingiva, is not directly attached to the bone and surrounds the tooth in a cuff-like manner. Mucosal gingiva refers to the soft tissue in areas not specifically related to the teeth, while interdental gingiva, found between the teeth, helps in preventing food impaction but does not provide the same anchorage as attached gingiva. Therefore, the role and connection of attached gingiva to the teeth make it the key element in maintaining periodontal health.