When gums turn white upon touch, it can be a normal physiological response. While often harmless, it can also signal underlying issues. Understanding these reasons helps distinguish between a temporary, benign effect and a sign requiring closer examination.
The Immediate Response to Pressure
Applying pressure to gum tissue causes a temporary color change, known as blanching. This occurs because pressure momentarily restricts blood flow within tiny capillaries just beneath the gum’s surface. As blood is pushed away, the pink gum tissue appears paler or white.
This transient whiteness is a normal reaction, similar to how skin might blanch when pressed. Once pressure is released, blood flow quickly returns, and the gum tissue regains its natural pink color within seconds. This rapid return to normal color indicates a healthy vascular response.
Common Causes of White Gums
Beyond temporary blanching, persistent white areas on gums can indicate several conditions. Oral thrush (candidiasis) is a common fungal infection appearing as creamy white lesions on gums, tongue, or inner cheeks. These patches may be slightly raised and can sometimes be wiped away, revealing a red, sensitive area underneath.
Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory condition affecting gums, manifesting as white, lacy patterns or red, swollen patches. This immune response can cause discomfort or a burning sensation. Leukoplakia involves thickened, white patches on gums or other mouth parts that cannot be scraped off. These are typically painless but require evaluation as some forms can be precancerous.
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are small, painful sores appearing on gums with a white or yellowish center surrounded by a red border. Their white appearance can be noticeable upon touch or inspection. Gum inflammation or infection, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, can alter gum appearance, sometimes leading to paler or whitish areas due to tissue changes or plaque accumulation.
Systemic issues like anemia (lack of healthy red blood cells) can lead to overall pale gums, making white areas more pronounced. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly certain vitamin deficiencies (such as C, D, K, and B vitamins), can also impact gum health and color. Less commonly, certain medications (like some antibiotics or corticosteroids) or chronic stress might contribute to changes in oral tissue appearance, including areas of paleness or whiteness on the gums.
When to Consult a Professional
While temporary blanching is harmless, certain signs warrant professional evaluation. Consult a dentist or doctor if the whiteness is persistent, does not disappear quickly after pressure, or remains for more than two weeks. This includes any white patches or lesions that persist without resolution.
Pain, bleeding, or significant discomfort with white areas also indicate seeking professional advice. If white patches spread, change in size, texture, or become raised, a prompt examination is recommended. Difficulty eating, speaking, or swallowing due to the gum condition also requires medical attention.
Systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes alongside white gums suggest a broader underlying issue requiring diagnosis. Any suspicion of an underlying medical condition should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. A dental professional can diagnose the cause of white gums and recommend appropriate treatment.