GUM

GUM is a term with multiple meanings. In common usage, it denotes chewing gum, a flavored, sweetened, non-digestible confection intended for chewing rather than swallowing. Chewing gum can be sugar or sugar-free and may contain sweeteners, flavorings, and softeners; it is available in many forms and is used for oral wellness by some brands.

"Gum" also refers to the gingival tissue, the soft tissue that surrounds and protects the teeth; healthy gums are pink and firm, and periodontal disease affects them.

"Gum" also denotes natural plant exudates known as gums, including gum arabic from Acacia senegal and gum tragacanth from Astragalus species; gums are used as thickening and stabilizing agents in foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

In consumer products, GUM is a brand name widely associated with dental care products such as toothpaste, interdental brushes, and floss developed by Sunstar. The GUM line emphasizes gum health and interdental cleaning.

The acronym GUM can stand for various organizations, systems, or terms depending on context, and is not unique to a single concept. When encountered in writing, the specific meaning is usually clarified by the surrounding text.