The color of gum tissue can vary among individuals, ranging from shades of pink to darker brown or black. While some dark gum pigmentation is entirely natural, a sudden change in color or the appearance of new dark spots can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue.
Common Reasons for Dark Gums
One common reason for dark gums is natural pigmentation. The body produces melanin, a pigment that gives color to skin, hair, and eyes, which can also naturally darken gum tissue. If gums have always been a consistent dark shade and show no other symptoms, this is typically a harmless, genetically determined trait, often seen in individuals with darker skin tones.
Dark spots on the gums can also result from amalgam tattoos. These are typically blue, black, or grey spots that appear when small particles from silver dental fillings become embedded in the gum tissue. Amalgam tattoos are generally benign and do not pose a health risk, but they are permanent.
Certain medications can cause gum discoloration as a side effect. For example, the antibiotic minocycline can lead to blackish-blue discoloration of the gum tissue and even the underlying bone. Other medications, including some antimalarials, antipsychotics, and cancer therapy drugs, may also induce changes in gum color.
Smoking and tobacco use are significant contributors to darkened gums, a condition known as smoker’s melanosis. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco stimulate melanocytes to produce more pigment. This can result in brown or black patches on the gums, inner cheeks, and lower lip, often increasing with greater tobacco use.
Gum infections, particularly severe forms of periodontal disease, can lead to dark-appearing gums. Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG), often called “trench mouth,” is a painful infection where dead tissue accumulates on the gums, causing them to appear grey or black. This condition is often associated with poor oral hygiene, stress, and compromised immune function. Trauma to the gums can also cause temporary dark spots. An injury from a fall, eating something sharp, or aggressive brushing can lead to dark discoloration that typically fades as the tissue heals.
When to Consult a Dentist
While some dark gum pigmentation is normal, consult a dentist if you notice any new dark spots or if existing discoloration changes. Pay close attention to any alterations in the spot’s appearance, such as changes in size, shape, or color. Seeking professional evaluation is particularly important if dark areas are accompanied by pain, swelling, bleeding, or ulcers on the gums. Any rapid change in gum color or new dark patches warrants a dental visit to rule out serious underlying conditions.
Addressing Dark Gums
A dentist will examine the dark areas and review your medical and dental history to determine the cause. Diagnostic tools like X-rays or a tissue biopsy may be used to confirm a diagnosis, especially if there is concern about oral melanoma.
For dark gums due to natural melanin pigmentation or harmless amalgam tattoos, professional intervention may not be medically necessary. However, if the dark areas are a cosmetic concern, procedures like gum depigmentation (also known as gum bleaching) can be performed. These treatments often use lasers or microdermabrasion to remove the pigmented outer layer of gum tissue, revealing lighter tissue underneath.
If medication is identified as the cause, your dentist may advise discussing alternative medications with your prescribing doctor. For discoloration caused by smoking, quitting tobacco products is the most effective way to potentially reverse the darkening, as gum tissue can lighten over time.
When gum discoloration is a symptom of periodontal disease, treatment focuses on addressing the infection. This typically involves professional dental cleanings, such as scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Antibiotics may also be prescribed, and improved oral hygiene practices are crucial for healing and preventing recurrence.
Strategies for Prevention
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is fundamental to preventing many causes of gum discoloration, particularly those linked to gum disease. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also important for monitoring gum health. Avoiding tobacco products is a significant step in preventing smoker’s melanosis, as quitting can lead to the fading of existing discoloration. While natural gum pigmentation and amalgam tattoos are not preventable, a healthy lifestyle can contribute to overall gum health.