The 20-year-old put pen-to-paper on an initial month's loan at Sandy Lane just hours before the United squad were forced into isolation for 14 days.
Gibbens, who joined the Pilgrims on a permanent basis during the summer following two earlier loan spells, will stay with the Tigers until November 7 initially.
"Lewis is very much part of the future of this club moving forward," reflected United manager Craig Elliott. "However, with only one competitive game to his name in almost one year, it is vital he gets as many appearances as possible to get himself to the level I know he can play at.
"He had a good pre-season with no setbacks so I think a spell of games will take him to the next level of his recovery from the injuries he has suffered in the past.
"He's going to a good team and I am sure it will be a beneficial loan for all involved."
Gibbens will join forces with ex-Pilgrims Sebastian Malkowski, Jack Broadhead and Gavin Allott at Sandy Lane.