Sometimes there is black or grey tissue on the gums because of dead tissue building up over them, and ulcers may form on the edges of teeth. Trench mouth is from bacteria in the mouth. It can happen from poor oral hygiene, stress, lack of sleep, or a diet that is not healthy.
Causes of Dark or Black Gums
Poor oral hygiene is often the leading cause of tartar buildup. For tartar to turn black or form below the gum line, improper brushing and flossing is usually the culprit.
Some forms of dark gums from smoking, amalgam tattoo, bacterial infections, or medications can easily be treated with gum bleaching and laser depigmentation procedures. Some, like lead poisoning, Addison's, etc., may require treatment of the underlying cause followed by gum depigmentation procedures.
Black gums are often simply a natural variation and not a medical concern. If you're concerned about the color of your gums, talk to your dentist. Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional.
An infection can cause black or grey gums if a layer of dead tissue builds up over the gums. Trench mouth results from the rapid growth of bacteria in the mouth, usually due to gingivitis. Bacteria may build up because of poor oral hygiene, stress, lack of sleep, or an unhealthful diet.
Many times, black gums go away if the cause is removed. For example, quitting smoking can restore oral health and healthy gum color. Other preventable causes include following proper oral hygiene as prescribed by a dentist.
Black gums can be a normal pigmentation for people with dark skin tones. However, black gums or black patches on your gums that are new may indicate a health concern. Conditions that cause black gums include melanotic macules, smoking, amalgam tattoos, medications, certain (systemic) diseases, and cancer.
This black discoloration of the gums is due to dead tissue, or necrosis. This is a serious health issue, with symptoms that can also include bleeding gums, strong pain, and a foul smelling mouth. Along with improper oral care, the causes of this disease can include stress, smoking, viral infections, and HIV.
Signs and symptoms of gingivitis include: Swollen or puffy gums. Dusky red or dark red gums. Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss.
Professional Black Gums Treatment
This is the name of a cosmetic periodontal procedure of removing extra pigmentation and dark spots from the gums. There are 2 whitening solutions that can be used to create your renewed smile: a microdermabrasion process and a laser technique.
Patients begin to see their permanent results in about a week, but the full effect of a Britegums treatment appears over the healing period (usually 3 – 4 weeks).
Gingivitis. In the first stage of periodontitis, called gingivitis, you may notice red, swollen gums and bad breath. Gums might also bleed when you brush or floss. Gingivitis, which is reversible, can be treated by improving at-home dental care and visiting your dentist regularly for treatment.
Stage 2: Periodontitis
Your gums begin to form “pockets,” deep hollow areas around the teeth that trap food, plaque, and bacteria. Your gums will recede and form gaps between your teeth. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
It looks like a small red ball pushing out of the swollen gum. An abscess can occur with serious gum disease (periodontitis), which causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. This leaves deep pockets where bacteria can grow. If tartar builds up too much, or if food gets stuck in the pockets, pus forms.
If a person's gums have always been very dark, there is no cause for concern. If the gum color changes over a short period, however, or if patches of black appear on the gums, it is probably not caused by melanin and may indicate a medical issue.
If you notice your gums are bleeding, either due to gingivitis or oral trauma, contact an emergency dentist immediately for a consultation. The dentist will examine your teeth and gums and recommend suitable treatment to stop the bleeding and treat gum disease.
Healthy gums are firm and pale pink and fit snugly around teeth. Signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include: Swollen or puffy gums. Bright red, dusky red or purplish gums.
Gingivitis is sometimes mistaken for periodontitis and vice versa. They are both stages of periodontal disease.
If you have symptoms of gingivitis, you should see a dentist for a checkup. Your dentist will inspect your mouth for: Bleeding. Signs of infection such as redness and swelling.
About Gum Bleaching
Some darker skinned individuals are not happy with the dark color of their gums. Fortunately, laser technology allows us to lighten the gum tissue safely and non-invasively, making darker gums or what some people call "black gums", lighter and more acceptable to them.
Having healthy, pink gums with an even gumline improves your appearance as well. Our periodontist can help you get back the pink gums.
Healthy gums should look a pinkish color and be firm. This is likely a good sign that your oral care routine is working. However, if your gums are anything other than pink in color and firm, it's time to consult with a dental professional.