What is Gum Depigmentation

Gum depigmentation is a cosmetic procedure used to treat dark areas on the gum tissue. Darker gum tissue is common in patients with African or Middle Eastern ancestry simply due to a higher concentration of melanin in the gums which causes the gum tissue to look brown or black instead of pink. The extra pigmentation does not indicate disease or dysfunction; the treatment of darker gum tissue is purely cosmetic.

Genetics are not the only cause of darker gum tissue. Side effects from certain medications, possible negative effects of amalgam fillings, and even smoking can all have an impact on the health and appearance of your gum tissue. Patients who develop dark gum tissue due to smoking are encouraged to stop smoking altogether, at the very least for seven days after gum depigmentation treatment.

How does gum depigmentation work?

​​Your doctor will administer a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Then, they will use a laser to vaporize and remove a thin top layer of the gum tissue, also destroying the cells that produce melanin. Depending on the color and size of the treatment area, the procedure can take anywhere between 20 and 45 minutes. As you heal, new, pinker gum tissue will be revealed.

Depending on the color and depth of the dark areas being treated, it may take multiple sessions to achieve the desired appearance. You will be able to speak and eat normally immediately after treatment though you may experience some slight discomfort for a few days. After about two weeks, your gum tissue will be completely healed!

How long does gum depigmentation treatment last?

Patients often experience results lasting for 20 years or more. After treatment, if you still see a few spots that you are not happy with, your doctor will be able to go over those again.

Gum depigmentation is a cosmetic procedure that is not appropriate for patients with oral disease, dark gums caused by periodontal disease, those taking blood thinners, nor patients who have permanent tooth roots. Of course the best way to determine your candidacy for laser gum depigmentation is to have a consultation with your doctor. Your dentist may be able to perform this procedure but often you will be sent to a periodontist, which is a dental specialist.

If you have dark areas on your gum tissue that make you uncomfortable and unconfident in your smile, it might be worth a conversation with your dentist to see if you are a candidate for laser gum depigmentation treatment. Evenly colored gum tissue can make you smile big and bright!

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