The average healthy dental patient has firm, pink gum tissue. This connective tissue helps keep the teeth in place within the mouth. If you suffer problems with your gums, you could see serious dental problems stemming from these periodontal concerns, including tooth loss.
If you notice changes in your smile, including in the color of your gums, these could be symptoms of larger periodontal problems that need urgent attention from your dentist to fix. Knowing what these issues could mean may encourage you to seek the dental care that you need. Read on to learn about three changes that can occur in your gum color and what they indicate about your oral health.
Red, Bleeding Gums
Gum disease refers to a common type of oral infection affecting the gum tissue. The early stage of this disease, gingivitis, often presents with red, swollen, and bleeding gum tissue. The inflamed gums will trigger the body’s inflammatory response as well, creating complications throughout the body.
You might see bleeding gums for acute reasons, like harsh teeth-brushing techniques. But chronic bleeding that does not seem to have a recognizable cause could signify gum disease. This infection does not go away on its own.
Gum disease is easier to treat when caught earlier, so do not wait to visit your dentist if you notice early signs of this infection. Sometimes, gum disease develops without these noticeable symptoms. So make sure you attend routine appointments with your dentist so that they can screen for gum problems.
Pale or White Gums
If your gums appear paler than usual, this could point to a number of different causes. You might have anemia, a condition in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells. Or a white bump on the gums might be a canker sore, an irritating problem that should fade on its own.
White gums can also occur due to oral thrush, a yeast infection within the mouth. Your dentist can diagnose the problem and offer appropriate treatment when you call them. Even if you think you can tolerate the symptom, notify your dentist about changes in your oral health. They could point to larger dental concerns.
Dark or Black Gums
Some people may have a naturally darker hue to their gum color. But if your gums start to get darker or turn black, then you might be developing a serious oral health concern.
Blackening gum tissue can occur as a side effect of a severe form of gum disease known as trench mouth. This infection can result in intense pain and damage to your smile, so do not delay treatment for this problem.
Poor oral habits, like tobacco usage, might also make your gums turn black. Hormonal changes can also cause this difference in your gum color. Find expert diagnoses and preventative dental care when you visit your dentist. They can also discuss cosmetic dentistry solutions to enhance your gum color if you prefer.
