What causes black gums? You should know these factors

Under normal circumstances, our gums are pink. Some people find that their gums have turned black. Some of these are caused by disease factors, while others are caused by external factors such as heavy metals, pigments, and dyes. If other symptoms occur, you need to see a doctor.

1. Some people find that their gums are black, unlike other people’s gums which are pink, and they worry whether they have some disease. This substance that causes changes in the color of gums or oral mucosa has two sources. One part comes from the body itself, called endogenous substances, mainly melanin and various pigments from hemoglobin. The other part comes from outside the body, called exogenous substances, mainly heavy metals, dyes, plant pigments and medicinal properties.

2. Clinically, gingival tissue is divided into three parts: free gingiva, attached gingiva and gingival papilla. The attached gingiva of normal people is pink, but in a few normal people, diffuse, cloudy melanin deposits can be seen on the surface of the attached gingiva, which is especially common in people with dark skin and blacks. This pigmentation has no pathological significance and does not require treatment.

3. In addition, some exogenous pigment substances, such as heavy metal salts (lead, mercury), are absorbed into the body through the blood circulation and can form band-shaped or linear light gray or blue-black pigment deposits on the edge of the gums, which are called lead lines and mercury lines. In addition, long-term heavy smokers will also have pigmentation deposits caused by tobacco on the surface of their gums. Some medications can also cause changes in the color of the oral mucosa and teeth.

4. It should be emphasized that if the pigmented areas on the gums or upper palate become rough, raised, easily bleed, or develop lumps, you should seek medical attention promptly.