The color of your gums can give you valuable information about the health of your mouth. Gingival hyperpigmentation, also known as dark gums, can be caused by gingivitis and in rare cases indicates more serious health concerns. This guide will help you to understand the causes and how to treat this condition if it’s problematic for you.
What Are The Risk Factors?
The risk factors for gums hyperpigmentation are not well understood. While there may not be any risk factors, some studies have suggested that individuals with gum disease or who smoke a lot may be more likely to develop gum hyperpigmentation. There are also a number of remedies for the condition, including removing plaque and tartar from the teeth, scaling the gingivae, reducing inflammation by using steroids or antibiotics, or even removing impacted teeth.
What Does It Look Like?
The main symptom of gingival hyperpigmentation is discolored or darkly pigmented gums. The color can range from light brown or yellowish to deep blue, green, or purple in some cases. While not usually a sign of any underlying condition, it can signal gingivitis in some individuals and may also be a physiological response to inflammation or irritation. For this reason, it’s important that you see your dentist for treatment if you notice any symptoms of gum disease.
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Hyperpigmentation Treatment Options:
If you’ve developed gums hyperpigmentation, your dentist may recommend various treatment options. These might include topical fluoride treatments, antibacterial mouthwashes, or chemical peels. It’s important to note that all of these are only treatments for the symptom of gum disease and not a cure for the underlying condition. The best way to manage the condition (and prevent further skin discoloration) is by maintaining good oral hygiene habits like brushing twice a day with your favorite toothpaste and using dental floss at least once a day.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery from gingival hyperpigmentation can take as long as six months, sometimes longer, depending on how extreme the discoloration is. However, for most people, the recovery process only takes two to three months. The first step in the recovery process is a professional tooth whitening treatment or at-home kit. This will help lighten the appearance of any dark spots that linger after professionally cleaning your teeth. You should also brush your teeth daily with an anti-gingivitis toothpaste or mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX).
