Black gums, or gum hyperpigmentation, is not very well known but it is a common symptom that hundreds of thousands of people are affected by. In this article, we will explore what causes black gums, how to make them disappear, and how to prevent them from happening in the future.
What Causes Black Gums?
Black gums are a few things that can cause your gums to turn black. The most common reason is smoking. Tobacco stains the gums and causes them to turn black over time. Another common reason is poor oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth and gums, causing them to turn black.
Certain medications can also cause your gums to turn black. For example, minocycline is a common antibiotic that is known to cause gum discoloration. If you are taking any medication, be sure to check with your doctor to see if it could be the cause of your black gums.
In rare cases, black gums can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as melanoma. If you have any other symptoms or concerns along with your black gums, be sure to see a doctor or dentist right away for an evaluation.
How to Prevent Black Gums:
The best way to prevent black gums is to brush and floss your teeth regularly. This will remove the plaque that can build up on your teeth and gums and cause them to become discolored. In addition, you should see your dentist for regular cleanings. They can remove any tartar that has built up on your teeth and help to keep your gums healthy.
If you are already experiencing black gums, there are a few things you can do to help make them disappear. First, try brushing your teeth with whitening toothpaste. This can help to brighten your teeth and make the discoloration less noticeable. You can also talk to your dentist about getting a professional whitening treatment. This can be done in the office or at home, depending on the severity of the discoloration.
Prevention Tips for Black Gums:
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent black gums, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk:
-Quit smoking. Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease, which can lead to black gums. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your oral health.
-Practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing regularly help remove plaque that can build up on your teeth and gums. This can help prevent gum disease and keep your gums healthy.
-See your dentist regularly. Getting regular dental checkups and cleanings can help spot problems early and keep your mouth healthy.
Home Remedies for Black Gums:
There are a number of home remedies that can help to get rid of black gums. These include:
- Oil pulling – This involves swishing oil around in your mouth for several minutes each day. Coconut oil is a good option for this.
- Aloe vera – Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the gums to help soothe them and reduce inflammation.
- Turmeric – Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties which can help to reduce gum swelling and pain. It can be taken in capsule form or as a spice added to food.
- Saltwater – Gargling with salt water can help to cleanse the gums and reduce bacteria levels.
- Green tea – Green tea contains antioxidants that can help to fight against gum disease. It can be drunk regularly or used as a mouthwash.
Conclusion:
Black gums can certainly be a cosmetic concern, but it’s important to remember that they are usually nothing to worry about from a health perspective. However, if you’re unhappy with the appearance of your gums, there are a few things you can do to make them disappear. Talk to your dentist about getting them professionally whitened, or try using an at-home teeth whitening kit. You can also try using a natural remedy like oil pulling or aloe vera gel to help lighten the color of your gums over time.