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Dark Gums

Dark gums are not always the norm. It’s only natural if they were that way from the start. If your gums have darkened,  it could indicate an underlying problem like periodontal disease or another health concern. If this is the case, we highly recommend visiting your dentist to determine the root cause of your gums’ darkening. They could also give you advice on what can be done. Your dentist will be able to help get your smile back in shape and keep your gums healthy.

• Production of melanin.
  Dark gums are common due to the natural melanin secretion, which causes the colour in your hair, skin, eyes, and gums. Depending on the levels of melanin in one’s body, your gums can range from light pinkish tones to dark brown or black shades. If you’ve had darker-than-usual gum tissue all along, there’s no need for alarm, as this isn’t necessarily serious.
  
  
• Smoking.
  Smoking can lead to an unpleasant discolouration of your gums, a medical condition known as smoker’s melanosis. This is because the nicotine in tobacco has been found to trigger extra melanin production, which gives the inside of your mouth patches or an overall tinge that ranges from brownish to black. If you’re concerned about this potential side effect caused by smoking, speak with your dentist, who can help diagnose any issues you may be experiencing.
  
  
• Amalgam tattoo.
  Amalgam tattoos are dark patches in the mouth, usually next to amalgam tooth fillings and composed of metallic particles from dental procedures. While treatment is often unnecessary, it’s always recommended to consult with your dentist so they can properly assess the situation.
  
  
• Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis.
  This gum infection is accompanied by fever, painful swelling in the affected area, and bad breath. When unmanaged, it can cause dead tissue to accumulate on top of the gum line, which eventually appears black or grey, indicating bacterial infections due to pre-existing inflammation from poor oral hygiene habits like not brushing often enough. Please schedule an appointment with Magical Smiles Bacchus Marsh so that we can assist you in dealing with this condition and restoring your oral health to normal.
  
  
• Eruption hematoma.
  An eruption hematoma develops when the teeth are about to come in and can become filled with fluid, sometimes including some blood. Eruption hematomas often occur from injuries such as bumps or falls.
  
  
• Bad oral hygiene.
  Your gums may appear dark due to poor oral hygiene practices. Over time, the combination of plaque and bacteria can cause tartar buildup on your teeth near the gum line, which gives them a darker appearance. Regular brushing, flossing and professional dental cleanings are necessary for maintaining good oral health.
  
  
• Oral cancer.
  Dark gums can be caused by more than just bad oral hygiene. In some cases, they may indicate the presence of cancer in your mouth. While it’s unlikely that dark spots indicate something serious, look for other warning signs associated with oral cancer, such as open sores and swelling around the jawline or throat area. If you notice any of these changes, make an appointment with Magical Smiles Bacchus Marsh right away to have them checked.
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Several factors can cause the gums to darken; it’s important to look at the underlying cause to effectively manage it. While there are suggested home remedies, it is important to note that they may not always work. Results from these home remedies may vary, depending on the cause of dark gums and your body chemistry.

• Eucalyptus oil.
  This essential oil provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits that help lighten black gums. Rinse your mouth with 5-8 drops of the oil in a half-glass of water.
  
  
• Sage leaves.
  The healing effects of these medicinal plants can help prevent the darkening or discolouration of your gums. Create a paste with sage leaves and apply it to the affected areas. If you are uncomfortable using the paste, you can boil water with sage leaves and drink it while it is hot, like tea.
  
  
• Clove oil.
  Clove oil is a great home remedy to manage dark gums. In addition to being an effective aid in the regrowth and improvement of damaged gum tissue, massaging clove oil onto your gums can also help lighten them for a healthier look. If you cannot find clove oil at home, try chewing on some cloves, which naturally release oils that work just as well.
  
  
• Sesame oil.
  Massaging sesame oil into your dark gums helps improve discolouration and restore a rosy hue. Plus, using lukewarm water to rinse after will leave your mouth feeling clean with no extra residue.
  
  
• Good oral hygiene.
  Taking the time to brush, floss, use mouthwash, and visit your dentist regularly are good ways to help prevent gum discolouration. 
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Dark gums can be both a cosmetic and a health concern. But with proper care, you can maintain the bright pink colour of healthy gums and prevent discolouration. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste as part of a good oral hygiene routine to help reduce plaque buildup that could lead to darkening.

Don’t forget regular flossing, either, since it will remove food particles between your teeth where bacteria might accumulate and cause discolouration. Finally, visit us for periodic checkups and routine cleanings so we can remove stubborn plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, as well as identify any potential diseases before they become serious issues down the road.

Dark gums won’t go away on their own. Some darkening or pigmentation is normal, but if it keeps happening and doesn’t get better, you should see your dentist to find out what’s going on and get the right treatment.