The common perception about healthy gums is that they are always pink. However, their color can vary just like skin color. The Future Dental Journal suggests that the color of healthy gums can range from pink to dark brown or even black. Dark patches on gums, however, can result from several factors, including medication and tobacco use. Although black gums do not always mean a dental issue, it is necessary to seek a dental appointment. You can also consider having cosmetic treatment for dark-colored gums.
Natural variations in the color of gums
The dark pigment that gives the skin the black color is known as melanin. This pigment is also present in gums. Gums get the dark color from it. According to the Future Dental Journal, dark gum color is common among people of African, Asian, and Mediterranean descent. This variation of color can be on any side of the mouth. It can be in patches or uniforms. This pigmentation is natural, there is no need for its treatment.
Reasons for black gums
Some endocrine diseases can also result in black gums. According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders, people with Addison's disease are more prone to developing dark patches on their gums and other areas covered by mucous membrane in their oral cavity.
Some medications can also affect gum color. According to the Future Dental Journal, darkening of gum color can happen due to medications, including antipsychotics, cancer therapy drugs, antimalarials, and antibiotics. If you notice the darkening of the color of your gums due to any of the treatments mentioned above, speak to your dentist.
Smoking can result in a host of oral health problems, including darkened gums. It is mainly due to nicotine that activates cells that produce melanin. Quitting smoking can help reduce dark pigmentation on gums.
In some cases, black gums indicate a much severe issue. A type of oral cancer known as malignant melanoma can result in a black spot on the mucous membrane of gums. You will need to consult with your dentist as soon as you notice this problem. A tissue biopsy may be required to diagnose oral malignant melanoma.
Treatment of black gums
If your gums are black without any reason, you do not need any treatment unless you are interested in a cosmetic solution. Your dentist will recommend an appropriate treatment for you after checking your gums.
One of the surgical options to treat black pigmentation is the removal of darkened gum tissues with the help of a scalpel. While the results of this treatment are instant, they are not usually permanent. It is because melanin-producing cells sometimes move to another location.
Another treatment for dark pigmentation on gums is Cryosurgery, which is a treatment aimed at freezing the affected gum tissue. The International Journal of Health Sciences suggests that the result of this treatment tends to be permanent.
Another way to treating this issue is free gingival grafting. This treatment involves harvesting gum tissues without pigmentation from the roof of the mouth and applying them to gums with dark pigmentations. This treatment is a way of concealing the affected area.
If you have any concerns regarding the color of your gums, contact your dentist to get an appointment.
