Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

Gum Darkening

11/18/2010

Question:

I am 61 yrs old, with type 2 diabetes for 12 yrs. Suddenly i have noticed that some teeth are showing gums turning black at its base. Only some not all. What is the cause and is there a remedy to get rid of it?

Answer:

There are several reasons for black spots to develop in the mouth, including use of certain medicines or even cigarettes. Most mouth spots are benign and not serious, but there is one rare exception called oral melanoma that is related to the skin cancer of the same name. Gingival color changes may happen due to gum diseases too.

Because of this unlikely possibility, I recommend you see your dentist or a dental specialist such as an oral and maxillofacial pathologist, surgeon or periodontist for a personal consultation. 

For more information:

Go to the Gum Diseases health topic.