rebecca 
Black Gums
What causes your gums to be black?
We all know that our gums can vary in color, from pink to red to purple. But did you know that they can also turn black? While this may sound alarming, it’s actually not as rare as you might think. In fact, black gums result from an excess of melanin or pigment cells in some people’s gums. Dark-skinned people are especially susceptible to black gums. The individual amount of pigment-producing cells or melanin determines our unique skin tone.
Why gums can turn black
As we all know, our gums can vary in color. But did you know that they can also turn black? While this may sound alarming, it’s actually not as rare as you might think. In fact, dark gums are the result of an excess of melanin or pigment cells in some people’s gums. Dark-skinned people are especially susceptible to black gums because the individual amount of pigment-producing cells or melanin determines our unique skin tone.
What causes black gums
The main cause of black gums is excess melanin or pigment cells in the gums. This is especially true for dark-skinned people. The individual amount of pigment-producing cells or melanin determines our unique skin tone. People with more melanin in their gums are more likely to have dark gums.
There are a few medical conditions that can cause dark gums as well. These include:
Addison’s disease – a disorder of the adrenal glands that can cause darkening of the skin
Hemolytic anemia – a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced, causing fatigue and other symptoms
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome – a rare disorder that causes dark spots on the skin and mucous membranes
Porphyria cutanea tarda – a rare disorder that causes blistering and scarring of the skin
While medical conditions can cause black gums, they are not the only cause. Other causes include:
Smoking – tobacco use can cause gum discoloration
Certain medications – some medications, such as tetracycline, can cause gum discoloration as well
Age – as we age, our gums naturally become darker
How to get rid of black gums
The main way to get rid of black gums is to see a dentist or oral surgeon for a consultation. They will be able to determine the cause of the dark gums and recommend the best treatment option. Usually, the first course of action is to get teeth cleaned by a professional. This will remove any built-up plaque and tartar that could be causing the gums to appear darker.
In addition to professional cleanings, it is important to brush and floss teeth regularly. This will help remove any food particles or bacteria that could be contributing to black gums. An electric toothbrush can be especially helpful in getting rid of black gums because it can more effectively remove plaque and tartar. Finally, using a whitening toothpaste can also help lighten the appearance of dark gums.
Preventing black gums
Quitting smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products is one of the best ways to prevent black gums. This is because tobacco use is a leading cause of gum disease. In addition to quitting smoking, it is also important to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing at least once a day can also help remove plaque and bacteria that could contribute to dark gums. Eating a healthy diet and limiting sugary snacks can also help keep gums healthy. Finally, seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups can help prevent gum disease and identify any problems early on.
If you want more information you can use the following links for more utilization:
When to see a doctor for black gums
If the black gum color does not go away after 2 weeks, if it is accompanied by pain or tenderness, bleeding, pus, or any other concerns, you should see a doctor.
