What Causes Dark Gums and How to Treat Them

January 24, 2025 Written By: Joyce Kahng, DDS

Highlights:

  • What Causes Dark Gums? Dark gums can be completely natural due to genetics, but they can also be a sign of things like gum disease, smoking, certain medications, or even rare conditions like Addison’s disease. 
  • Cosmetic Options: If your gums are naturally dark and you’d like to lighten them for aesthetic reasons, treatments like laser gum depigmentation can help. 
  • Medical Treatments: If the dark color is caused by gum disease, treatments like scaling, root planing, or antibiotics can address the issue. 
  • When to Get Help: If your gums have unusual discoloration, or you’re experiencing pain or swelling, it’s time to see your dentist to figure out what’s going on.

Dark gums are fairly common, and for many people, they’re completely normal. Genetics and melanin levels often play a role, much like how skin tones vary from person to person. 

But in some cases, dark gums may signal other issues, such as: 

  • Gum disease 
  • Discoloration from smoking 
  • Side effects of certain medications 

If you’ve noticed any changes in gum color or are experiencing discomfort, it’s important to take action. Don’t ignore your oral health—it’s always best to consult with a dentist. They can examine your gums, identify any underlying problems, and recommend effective solutions. 

What Causes Dark Gums?

Genetics 

The color of your gums is often influenced by your genetics. Higher melanin levels can make gums appear naturally darker, which is completely normal—especially for people with darker skin tones. Just like skin or eye color, gums come in all shades, and it’s usually nothing to worry about!

Not every difference in gum color means something is wrong. Naturally darker gums are often just a result of unique pigmentation.

If your gums haven’t changed over time and you’re not experiencing any pain or swelling, there’s usually no need to be concerned—it’s simply the way your body is!

Gingivitis or Periodontal Disease 

Gum Model with Blood on Teeth

When your gums are inflamed or infected, like with gingivitis or more serious cases like periodontal disease, they can start to look darker. This happens because of increased blood flow or changes in the tissue caused by bacteria buildup. 

Over time, untreated gum infections can get worse, leading to more severe problems. This is why regular dental checkups are so important to keep your gums healthy and avoid bigger issues down the road.

Smoking 

Smoking is a common reason why gums can appear darker. It affects blood flow to the gums and increases melanin production, causing a condition called smokers’ melanosis.

The good news? This discoloration can often be reversed if you quit smoking early. If you’re a smoker, keeping an eye on changes in your gum color is an important step in taking care of your oral health.

Medications 

Some medications, like minocycline (an antibiotic), can sometimes change the color of your gums. While this is usually harmless, it can feel a little worrying, especially for cosmetic reasons.

If you think your medication might be affecting your gum color, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist or healthcare provider. They’ll help you figure out the best next steps.

Amalgam Tattoos 

Amalgam tattoos happen when tiny bits of dental fillings or materials get stuck in the gum tissue, leaving dark spots. Don’t worry, they’re completely harmless and don’t need treatment. If you’re unsure, your dentist can easily check and confirm it during your next visit.

Addison’s Disease 

Addison’s disease, a condition caused by hormonal imbalances in the adrenal glands, can sometimes show up as dark patches on your gums. This might come along with other signs like feeling really tired or changes in your skin.

If you notice anything like this, it’s important to check in with a healthcare provider. Catching and treating it early can make a big difference.

Oral Cancer 

Sometimes, dark discoloration on the gums can be a sign of something more serious, like oral cancer—though this is rare. It’s important to keep an eye on any unusual or persistent changes in gum color, especially if you also notice bleeding, lumps, or sores that don’t heal.

Recognizing these signs early can make all the difference. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to consult a dentist or doctor.

Treatments for Dark Gums

Dentist examining patient.

Dark gums don’t always need treatment. For many people, it’s simply a natural part of their skin tone and completely harmless. But if the discoloration is due to something like gum disease or another medical condition, it’s important to address it.

Dentists can figure out what’s going on by doing a thorough exam and sometimes running tests to check for any underlying issues.

Cosmetic Treatments for Natural Dark Gums 

If you’re unhappy with dark gums, gum depigmentation could be a great solution. This cosmetic treatment is safe, effective, and can brighten your smile dramatically.

One of the most popular techniques is laser therapy, which is quick, minimally invasive, and delivers excellent results. The procedure uses a laser to gently remove excess melanin, leaving your gums with a lighter, more even appearance.

  • Painless experience: Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. 
  • No downtime: You can resume your daily routine almost immediately after treatment. 

In some cases, your dentist might recommend other methods, such as: 

  • Surgical scraping: A more traditional approach that may be used for specific needs. 

Medical Treatments for Discoloration Due to Disease 

If you’re dealing with dark gums caused by gum disease, addressing the infection is important for both your health and appearance. A common first step is scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This helps prevent the disease from worsening.

In more advanced cases, additional treatments may be necessary. These might include: 

  • Antibiotics to target infection. 
  • Surgical procedures to restore gum health. 

Discoloration isn’t always linked to gum disease. Sometimes, it can result from other issues like: 

  • Fungal infections, which may require antifungal medication. 
  • Underlying health conditions, where treatment will depend on the diagnosis. 

With the right care, you can improve the appearance of your gums while also preventing future problems. Always consult your dentist to determine the best approach for your situation.

At-Home Care 

Little girl with mom brushing teeth in bathroom.

Taking care of your gums and maintaining a bright smile comes down to a few simple habits. Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush, making sure to clean along the gumline. Pair that with daily flossing—it’s the only way to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth.

A healthy diet plays a big role in your oral health. Focus on vitamin-rich foods, like those packed with vitamin C, to strengthen your gums. At the same time, try to minimize sugary and acidic foods, as these can lead to long-term issues over time.

To keep your mouth fresh throughout the day: 

  • Drink water after meals to rinse away food particles. 
  • Limit snacking on sticky or sugary treats that cling to your teeth. 

FAQs About Dark Gums 

Why are some people’s gums naturally darker? 

Dark gums are often a completely natural variation and usually linked to genetics. People with more melanin in their skin may have darker gums due to higher pigment levels. This is perfectly normal and doesn’t usually indicate a health problem. 

Can dark gums turn pink again? 

Yes, dark gums can turn pink again depending on the cause. If discoloration is from excess melanin and you desire a lighter color, cosmetic procedures like gum depigmentation can help. If the discoloration is caused by health issues, addressing the underlying condition through proper treatment might restore a healthier gum color. 

Is gum depigmentation safe and effective? 

Yes, gum depigmentation is safe and effective when performed by a qualified dental professional. The procedure involves removing surface pigmentation, often using lasers or other advanced techniques, to achieve aesthetically pleasing results. Recovery is typically quick, and patients often notice significant improvement in gum appearance. Consult your dentist to determine if this is a suitable option for you. 

Conclusion 

Dark gums are usually harmless and are often due to natural melanin levels. However, in some cases, they can be linked to factors like smoking, gum disease, certain medications, or, rarely, underlying health issues. 

Female Patient Getting a Dental Check-up

Want to keep your gums healthier?

  • Brush and floss regularly to maintain oral hygiene. 
  • Stay hydrated to support your overall gum health. 
  • Cut back on smoking, as it can discolor gums over time. 
  • Visit your dentist for regular checkups and professional advice. 

If you’re concerned about gum discoloration, treatments like gum depigmentation or addressing the root cause can help restore a healthy appearance. 

Healthy gums mean a healthier smile. If you’d like to learn more about gum care or need help improving your oral health, schedule a consultation with us. You can also follow Joyce the Dentist on social media for easy tips and advice to keep your teeth and gums in top shape!

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