Final answer:
The labial/buccal attached gingiva is typically the widest at the mandibular canines, which is significant for its role in tearing food and the necessity for robust support in the oral cavity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The labial/buccal attached gingiva is an important part of oral health, serving as the soft tissue that lines the sockets and surrounds the necks of teeth for protection. In the context of the anatomy of a tooth, the gingiva plays a vital role in maintaining the stability of tooth placement within the alveolar processes of the maxilla and mandible. When considering the permanent teeth, the labial/buccal attached gingiva is normally widest at the mandibular canines. These teeth, also known as cuspids, are located posterior to the incisors and are equipped with a pointed edge to effectively tear food. The broader gingiva surrounding the mandibular canines aids in the robust anchoring of these teeth, which are subjected to significant forces during biting and tearing.