Black gums have various causes ranging from bruises to underlying medical conditions. It’s just a matter of familiarizing yourself with the causes so you can get the right black gum treatment. 

According to a study by the Future Dental Journal, healthy gums can be any color, from pale pink to very dark brown. That’s why it can be tricky to tell if your gums are black due to an injury or a more severe problem. In this article, we’ll explore the top causes of black gums so you can get to the bottom of your gum discoloration.

Why are my gums black?

Gums are tissues that surround and support your teeth. Like any other tissue in your body, they can be injured and turn black for various reasons. The following are some of the common causes of black gums.

Dental Trauma

A fall, a blow to the mouth, or even vigorous tooth brushing can cause your gums to turn black. These bruises are often colored purple or blue at first and then turn black as they heal. There may also be some occasional bleeding and pain associated with the injury.

The good news is that black gums caused by dental trauma usually heal on their own within a few days to weeks. A rare condition called thrombocytopenia can cause excessive bruising and bleeding. This is a condition where you don’t have enough platelets, cells that help your blood clot.

You should see a dentist immediately if your black gums are accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, or swelling since this could signify a more serious problem like thrombocytopenia.

The nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can cause your gums to turn black and increase your risk of gum disease.

Smoking

One common cause of black gums is smoking. The nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can cause your gums to turn black and increase your risk of gum disease. Excessive exposure to these chemicals can also lead to your gums receding, making your teeth appear longer than they actually are and darkening areas of your teeth near the gum line.

The body has specialized cells called melanocytes that produce melanin. These cells are found in the gums, skin, and other tissues. According to studies by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, the chemicals in cigarettes can trigger an increase in melanin production, which may cause gums to turn black.

If you smoke and notice that your gums are black, the best thing you can do is quit smoking. This will improve not only the appearance of your gums but also your overall health.

Pigmentation Disorders

Certain medical conditions can cause your gums to turn black. One example is melasma, a skin condition that causes dark patches on the face. Many disorders can cause your gums to turn black or other colors like blue, brown, or gray.

They can also cause changes in the pigmentation of your skin and hair. If you have a pigmentation disorder, consult a doctor for the appropriate treatment.

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can cause your gums to turn black. These include some heart medications like digitalis and chemotherapy drugs. Minocycline, a drug for acne, can also cause your gums to turn black or blue.

These side effects are usually not serious. They may disappear once you stop taking the medication. However, it’s still best to consult a dentist or doctor if you experience gum discoloration while taking these medications.

Addison’s Disease is likely caused by an issue with the immune system and can trigger severe complications if left untreated.

Addison’s Disease

Addison’s Disease is a rare condition that occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including gum discoloration. The gums may turn black, blue, or brown due to the lack of hormones.

Other symptoms of Addison’s Disease include weight loss, fatigue, low blood pressure, and muscle weakness. Addison’s Disease is likely caused by an issue with the immune system and can trigger severe complications if left untreated. Get in touch with a doctor as soon as possible if you think you may have Addison’s Disease.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease. It occurs when plaque buildup on the teeth causes the gums to inflame. The earliest symptoms of gingivitis include gums that are red, swollen and those that bleed easily.

Without proper treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis which can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and trigger bone and tooth loss. The best way to protect your gums against gingivitis is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and seeing a dentist regularly.

Blue Nevus

A blue nevus is a mole that can occur on the gums. It is a benign growth that is usually harmless. However, it can also signify melanoma, a type of skin cancer in rare cases. A blue nevus is typically small and round with a smooth surface. It can be blue, black, or gray.

If you have a blue nevus, you should have it checked by a doctor or dentist to ensure it is not cancerous.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can occur in the gums, tongue, and other areas in the mouth and can be life-threatening. Symptoms of oral cancer include a sore that does not heal, bleeding in the mouth and pain in the mouth. Other symptoms include gum discoloration, a lump in the neck, and difficulty swallowing.

Oral cancer also causes your gums to turn black or blue. It is treatable if caught early but can be deadly if left untreated. Consider seeing a dentist or doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms.

Reversible Pulpitis

Reversible pulpitis is a condition that causes the pulp, or center of the tooth, to become inflamed. The inflammation usually results from bacteria that enter the tooth through a crack or cavity. Reversible pulpitis is characterized by red, swollen, and tender gums. The gums may also turn black or blue.

Other symptoms include tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. Reversible pulpitis is treatable with a root canal. However, if the condition is left untreated, it can progress to irreversible pulpitis, triggering severe pain and tooth loss.

How to get rid of black gums

Treatment for black gums can range from simple at-home remedies to more aggressive treatments. In most cases, reversing gum discoloration is possible. Here are some ways you can get rid of black gums based on their causes:

  • Plaque Buildup: If your gums are black due to plaque buildup, you can remove the plaque at home with proper oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. After practicing good oral hygiene, you may need professional teeth cleaning if your gums are still discolored.
  • Gingivitis: If your gums are black due to gingivitis, you can treat the condition at home with proper oral hygiene and over-the-counter medication. If your gums do not improve after self-care, you may need to see a dentist or periodontist. They can prescribe more powerful medications or perform deep cleaning.
  • Blue Nevus: A blue nevus is usually harmless and does not require treatment. However, you should have it checked by a doctor or dentist to ensure it is not cancerous.
  • Oral Cancer: Oral cancer requires prompt medical treatment. If you think you may have oral cancer, see a dentist or doctor immediately. They can perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for oral cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
  • Reversible Pulpitis: Reversible pulpitis can be treated with a root canal. If you think you have reversible pulpitis, it’s best to see a dentist as soon as possible.

Other common ways to treat black gums include laser therapy, cryotherapy, and electrosurgery. These treatments are usually reserved for more severe cases of gum discoloration and are performed by a dentist or periodontist.

Get your gums checked today

Black gums can be unsightly and may indicate an underlying health condition. If you have black gums, we recommend seeing a dentist or a doctor that can determine the cause. In most cases, black gums are treatable and reversible. With prompt treatment, you can improve the appearance of your gums and protect your oral health.

Get your gums checked today with one of the leading family dentists in Scottsdale. Rod W. Gore, DDS, and his team offer comprehensive dental services and fluoride treatments for patients of all ages. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your gums back to their healthy state.