Did you know that dark gums are common in certain ethnic groups, such as those with African or Middle Eastern ancestry? Although gum pigmentation is often seen in these groups, there are several causes of dark gums. Luckily, however, dark gums can usually be treated with gum bleaching, as this will help remove all pigmentation from the gums.
Several factors can lead to dark gums, including periodontal disease, genetics, gingivitis, and the use of certain medications. Although many people are able to receive dark gum treatment, those with oral diseases, cancer, and fungal infections are not good candidates for the procedure. Periodontal disease, for example, must be cured before receiving gum pigmentation treatment. Periodontal disease treatment can be administered through medicine or surgery, but a dentist must determine the right treatment method for you.
Gum bleaching is generally done using lasers. Although gum tissue grafting used to be a popular form of treatment, this method is more invasive and painful than laser treatment. As a result, laser gum surgery is frequently used. Laser treatment is a suitable alternative to tissue grafting, as it uses a dental laser to remove dark pigmentation from the gums. In fact, one laser treatment can last up to 20 years. Since laser gum treatment is less invasive and relatively pain-free, it is often preferred over tissue grafting.
Although several factors lead to gum pigmentation, most causes can be treated using gum bleaching. Lasers are typically used to treat dark gums, and this method can only be administered after all disease is removed from the mouth using periodontal disease treatments. After receiving laser gum surgery, however, you will no longer have to be embarrassed by your dark gums.