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Gum Diseases

Gums

03/03/2006

Question:

why are my gums turning black.

Answer:

There may be several reasons. Here are some of them:

1- Melanin pigmentation...This is physiologically existing protein in our skin and mucosa. It is more pronounced in some races like African-Americans.

2- Smoking, using some types of mouthrinse, diet, etc. would cause staining, not only tooth structure but gums too.

3- Formation of calculus, root decay, etc. under gumline.

4- Work-related...If you are a miner, etc. working in a place you need to inhale a lot of toxic substances.

5- Metal leakage from dental restorations (if localized).

If it is a localized area and not symmetrical, you should definitely visit a dentist. You may also need to see a dentist anyway if you have not done so for a long time. We recommend professional cleaning every 6 months.

 

For more information:

Go to the Gum Diseases health topic, where you can:

Response by:

Binnaz Leblebicioglu, DDS, MS, PhD Binnaz Leblebicioglu, DDS, MS, PhD
Associate Professor of Periodontology
College of Dentistry
The Ohio State University