Why do the gums change color?

Healthy gums are essential for a beautiful smile and a good oral health: Usually, we associate healthy gums with a pale pink color, but what happens when change color?

In this article we look at the main reasons behind the changes in the color of the gums and how these can be indicative of the health general of our mouth.  

Factors affecting gum color

Le differences in the pigmentation of the gums may be due to genetics and ethnicity: people with darker skin tend to have darker gums, which is completely normal!

Instead, there are some Changes related to oral health:

• one of the most common causes of changes in the color of the gums is theinflammation, often resulting from gingivitis or periodontal disease. The gums may change from a pale pink to a bright red or dark purple
• some drugs, including those for high blood pressure and some types of chemotherapy, can cause a change in the color of the gums
• the hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy, puberty and menopause, can make the gums change color
• the smoking can lead the gums to acquire a darker color Due to reduced blood flow and the effects of nicotine
• l'plaque and tartar accumulation can make the dark red or purple gums
• the lack of vitamins essentials, such as vitamin C and K, can influence the color of the gums
• conditions such as the diabetes and cardiovascular disease can affect oral health and cause Changes in the color of the gums.  

Identify the underlying cause of color change is crucial to the treatment: the visit to the dentist for a thorough examination is the first step, and treatment can range from improved oral hygiene to specific treatments for periodontal disease or adjustments in ongoing drug therapy.  

Le gums are a reflection of our oral and general health: i changes in the color of the gums can be a sign that something is wrong, whether it is oral hygiene, systemic disease, or lifestyle habits.

Paying attention to these changes and seeking professional advice is essential to maintaining a healthy mouth: taking care of our gums not only protects our smile, but is also an important step toward improving our overall health.  

[Medical Director: Dr. Mauro Savio, Member of the Dentists Register Provincial Order of Surgeons and Dentists of Milan n. 4168].