Healthy gums are usually pale pink or coral and have a firm texture. However, gum discoloration—changes in the colour of your gums—can sometimes signal underlying issues that need attention. Understanding why your gums may be discoloured is important for maintaining good gum health.
What Do Healthy Gums Look Like?
While light pink gums are typical, natural variations exist. For example, people with more melanin often have naturally darker gums, which is normal and harmless.
Common Causes of Gum Discolouration
Here are some common reasons for dark gums or changes in gum colour:
- Natural Pigmentation: Melanin causes darker spots, especially in people with darker skin tones.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque buildup can cause inflamed, red, or purple gums linked to gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco can cause smoker’s melanosis, darkening the gums and hiding inflammation.
- Medications: Certain drugs like minocycline or antimalarials, may cause gum darkening.
- Medical Conditions: Hormonal changes, Addison’s disease, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, and rarely, oral cancer can affect gum colour.
- Injury or Trauma: Aggressive brushing or dental trauma can cause bruising and discoloration.
- Amalgam Tattoos: Grey or blue spots from metal dental fillings embedded in gums.
Prevention Tips for Healthy Gums
- Maintain good oral hygiene: brush twice daily and floss regularly.
- Avoid tobacco products to prevent discoloration and gum disease.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
- When Should You See a Dentist?
- Seek professional advice if you notice:
- Sudden or uneven gum colour changes
- Persistent discoloration accompanied by pain, swelling, or bleeding
- Dark spots or lesions that don’t heal
Knowing your gums
Not all gum discoloration is harmful, but changes shouldn’t be ignored. Maintaining healthy gums is key to overall oral health. If you’re concerned about your gum colour, book a dental appointment for an accurate diagnosis and peace of mind.