Traditionally the color of your gums is out of your control. Every person has a unique pigment to their skin, hair, gums, and eyes. However, there are cosmetic adjustments that can be made to adjust the coloration of your gums. In order to remove dark black or brown spots from your gums, your dental care team may recommend a procedure called Gum Depigmentation. Your doctor will expose the dark spots of your gums to a specialized light treatment. This light will break down the concentrated areas of melanin in the gumline, which will then stimulate healthy blood flow and pink tissues to the gums.
The color of your gums can vary from person to person. Some people have naturally darker gums, while others have lighter gums. However, there are a number of factors that can cause your gums to become darker, including:
- Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to developing dark gums than others.
- Smoking: Smoking can cause the gums to become discolored.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as tetracycline, can cause the gums to become dark.
- Inflammation: Gum inflammation, such as that caused by periodontitis, can cause the gums to become dark.
- Trauma: Trauma to the gums, such as from a sports injury, can cause the gums to become dark.
- Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as Addison's disease and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, can cause the gums to become dark.
If you notice that your gums have become darker, it is important to see a dentist to determine the cause. In some cases, black gums may be a sign of a more serious medical condition.
Solutions for Black Gums
If your black gums are caused by a medical condition, your dentist may refer you to a doctor for treatment. In other cases, there are a number of things you can do to lighten the color of your gums, including:
- Quit smoking: Smoking is the most common cause of dark gums. Quitting smoking can help to lighten the color of your gums over time.
- See a dentist: Your dentist can remove any plaque or tartar buildup that may be contributing to the discoloration of your gums.
- Use a whitening toothpaste: Whitening toothpaste can help to lighten the color of your gums over time.
- Get regular dental checkups: Regular dental checkups can help to identify and treat any underlying problems that may be causing your gums to become dark.
- Gum Depigmentation: Gum Depigmentation is a safe option with no increased risk of gum infection or disease.
Preventing Black Gums
There are a number of things you can do to prevent your gums from becoming dark, including:
- Quit smoking: Smoking is the most common cause of dark gums. Quitting smoking is the best way to prevent your gums from becoming dark.
- Brush your teeth twice a day: Brushing your teeth twice a day helps to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can contribute to the discoloration of your gums.
- Floss every day
- Use a fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste helps to strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to staining.
- Get regular dental checkups: Regular dental checkups can help to identify and treat any underlying problems that may be causing your gums to become dark.
If you are concerned about the color of your gums, talk to your dentist. They can help you determine the cause of your dark gums and recommend treatment options.
