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Black gums can be caused by amalgam tattoos, tartar buildup, or malignant melanoma. Proper oral hygiene can prevent most cases, but if left untreated, it could lead to gum disease or cancer. Amalgam tattoos can be removed by a dentist.
While black gums aren’t normal, they can usually be treated and aren’t typically a sign of a serious problem. For example, amalgam tattoos are dark patches that can form around fillings, dentures, and crowns. Calculus, which is a substance that can build up in the mouth when oral hygiene is lacking, can also cause dark patches on the gums. Unfortunately, black gums can also be a sign of malignant melanoma in the mouth, which is particularly difficult to treat. The good news is that dark gums can typically be avoided through proper oral hygiene which includes regular brushing, flossing, dental checkups, and avoiding smoking and chewing tobacco.
Some people develop stained gums after receiving certain types of dental treatment, such as dentures, fillings, and crowns. Gum discoloration of this type is called amalgam tattooing, which occurs when small pieces of a pad or cap get wedged into the gums. This problem often looks like a blue or black tattoo in the mouth, and while it’s not desirable for those striving for a perfect smile, it’s also harmless. Of course, amalgam tattoos can be removed by a dentist if preferred.
Another problem that can lead to black gums is tartar, which is technically hardened plaque, also called tartar. Although it is usually easily removed by a dentist, patients can often prevent it by brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque in the first place. The result of the calculus is a group of yellow or black spots that appear at the gum line, and if not treated by a dentist, these spots can lead to gum recession and bad smelling breath. If the problem isn’t brought to the attention of a dentist to be treated, it could lead to gum disease in the future.
Despite the fact that most causes of black gums are treatable, there is still some cause for concern when observing this symptom. This is because a dark spot can also be a sign of malignant melanoma inside the mouth, which is a rare form of skin cancer. As the cancer grows, the spot may increase in size and eventually may look like a dark color mixed with gray or red. While most cases of skin cancer can be treated when caught early, many cases of melanoma in the mouth cannot be fixed as this area is hard to reach. Also, by the time most patients notice black gums, the disease has often already passed the point of treatment.
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