Dark spots on gums can be concerning when you notice them daily. While some discoloration may be harmless, it can sometimes indicate health issues that require professional attention. This guide will help you understand the causes, treatment options, and prevention methods.
What are Dark Spots on Gums?
This health issue is also known as hyperpigmentation. It could appear as brown, blue, or black patches on the gum tissue. These spots can vary in size and may occur in a single or multiple locations. While they’re often harmless, understanding what causes them is crucial for proper treatment.
Common Causes
Melanin Production
Natural pigmentation variations due to genetics. People who have darker skin than this are more common. Usually symmetrical and paper gradually.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoker’s melanosis(tobacco-induced pigmentation) typically develops after years of tobacco use. It can affect different areas of the mouth.
Bruises
Injuries to the gums can cause bruises. They can also be like dark and brown spots. This type of injury (bruises) usually heals on its own.
If more bruises appear, that’s more likely that you have thrombocytopenia. So, it’s better to consult with a doctor.
Oral cancer
Only dark spots can confirm cancer. However, other symptoms such as open sores, bleeding, and swelling in the mouth may indicate oral cancer.
The best way to determine whether you have oral cancer is to see a doctor, who might recommend doing a biopsy. It’s a common procedure to help get the answers you need!
Medical Conditions
- Addison’s disease
- Von Recklinghausen’s disease
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
- HIV-associated melanosis
Medication Side Effects
- Certain antibiotics
- Antimalarial drugs
- Some antipsychotic medications
- Birth control pills
When Should You Consult a Healthcare Provider
Rapid color changes
Pale Gums: If the appearance of your gums is pale, then you might have anemia. This is caused by a low red blood cell count.
Red gums: This is a common sign of gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease. Redness, swelling, bleeding, and bad breath are the signs of gingivitis.
Infection can also be the reason behind redness. If you have redness, pain, pus, fever, swelling, or loose teeth, see the doctor as soon as possible.
Redness can happen if you are using the wrong or a hard brush. Use proper brushing technique, and your gums and teeth will thank you for that.
Irregular Borders and Dark Spots
Irregular gum lines, also known as uneven gums. Various factors can contribute to this condition, including melanin production, trauma, certain medications, or oral cancer. It’s better to consult with a dentist.
Bleeding or pain
This could indicate several minor to more serious issues. Like gum disease, amalgam tattoos, or signs of vitamin deficiencies.
Spreading or growing spots
Growing spots indicate several things, like pigmentation, amalgam tattoos, and more serious issues like oral cancer or gum disease.
Associated symptoms like fever or fatigue
If you experience dark spots along with fever or fatigue, it may be due to gum disease, such as acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG), or, in some cases, mouth cancer.
Daily Habits for Healthy Gums
Brush twice daily
Brush your teeth with a proper brush and try to brush after every meal. Try to use a soft-bristle brush with fluoride toothpaste(Source: Mayo Clinic).
Floss
Try to floss at least once a day. This helps remove plaque and food particles that a toothbrush cannot reach.
Regular professional cleanings
Your dentist can detect early gum issues and treat them before they become serious.
Avoid tobacco products
Smoking tobacco is associated with several gum diseases. Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight gum infections.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Regular Check-ups
Schedule bi-annual dental visits. If any changes occur, document them. Professionally maintain the cleaning process.
Documentation
Take photos to track changes, keep a symptom diary, and record any new developments.
Conclusion
Dark spots on gums can range from harmless pigmentation to serious health conditions. So, proper treatment and monitoring are important for oral health. If you notice concerning changes, then consult with a dental professional for proper treatment.
