What is Gum Depigmentation?
The most common cause of any darker pigments in your gums is your genetics. Excess melanin can accumulate in your gums, making them appear brown or black instead of pink. This happens more often in certain ethnic groups, like people with African or Middle Eastern ancestry. The extra pigment is not harmful and does not indicate any disease or dysfunction. You may seek treatment because you have an aesthetic preference for pink gums that display your teeth better.
Other causes for your darker gums include smoking, some side effects from certain medications and even an effect of amalgam dental fillings on your gums.
Do you not care for your smile because your gums are darker? Do you avoid showing your teeth during a smile because of the visible areas of hyperpigmentation? Your teeth may be healthy and white, but the discoloration of the gums detracts from your smile and affects your self-confidence.
There is a simple procedure that can eliminate dark gums. Laser gum bleaching is a common and popular cosmetic procedure because it is quick, safe, and provides very predictable results.
Are You a Candidate for Gum Depigmentation?
The baseline is simply that your gums are healthy. Your dentist will evaluate your gums and assess your gum health prior to performing the treatment.
This cosmetic treatment is not suitable:
- If you have oral disease.
- If you have dark gums caused by periodontal disease.
- If you take blood thinners, which can cause excessive bleeding during treatment.
- If you have thin gum tissue or prominent tooth roots.
The Gum Depigmentation Process
Laser gum depigmentation vaporizes and removes a very thin top layer of the gum tissue, destroying the cells that produce the excessive melanin. During the healing period the new tissue tends to be pink rather than brown. The treatment might require a local anesthetic and has a short recovery time with minimal discomfort. Depending on the color or depth of the darker patch, it might take several treatments to achieve the desired lightening.
What Is the Healing Process Like?
If you have gum depigmentation you can expect minor discomfort and no complications after your treatment. If you have overly sensitive gums, you could experience some discomfort for a brief period. You will be able to speak and eat normally immediately after your treatment is completed.
Everything heals in about 2 weeks.
Proper Aftercare and the Prevention of Further Gum Discoloration
You might notice some temporary sensitivity to your gums after your depigmentation treatment. You will have no issues with your speech, and you can resume your normal routine immediately with no restrictions on your diet.
Take proper care of your gums by practicing a daily oral hygiene program that includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once. Watch your diet. Try to limit the amount of sugar and alcohol you consume. Avoid habits, such as any tobacco use, which will cause your gums to darken again. Schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months to compliment your efforts.