Do you ever wonder why your gums are dark and if anything can be done about it? Dark gums are caused by an excess of melanin, the same pigment responsible for skin colors. Just like people with darker skin have more melanin, those with dark gums have higher levels in their gum tissue. The good news is, this can easily be treated with a simple procedure called gum depigmentation or gum bleaching.

What causes gum pigmentation?
In the gingival epithelium, cells called melanocytes reside. The rate of melanocytes is different in different individuals. These cells are responsible for melanin pigmentation, which is seen as black spots or patches on the gum surface.
Gum pigmentation can occur for several reasons, with the most common factors being genetics, smoking, certain medications, or hormonal changes. While darker gums are generally harmless, they can lead to a less aesthetically pleasing appearance, which can affect one’s self-confidence. Thankfully, gum depigmentation offers a way to restore the natural pinkness of your gums and enhance your smile.
What are Gum Depigmentation and its employed Technique?
Gum depigmentation is a cosmetic dental procedure that addresses the discoloration of the gums. It involves the removal of excess melanin—the pigment responsible for dark or unevenly pigmented gums—revealing the pink, healthy tissue underneath.
Basically, two main techniques are employed: Laser ablation and surgical technique.
Laser Technique: Conventional Method of Gum Pigmentation:
The laser treatment targets the cells in your gums that produce the dark pigment. By using the laser, these cells are removed, which helps to reduce melanin production, resulting in lighter and more even-colored gums. After the procedure, the gum tissue heals naturally on its own. A follow-up appointment is scheduled to ensure everything is healing well.
Scalpel Technique: Traditional Method of Gum Pigmentation:
After administration of the local anaesthetic agent, a small blade is used to remove the dark pigmented layer of the gums. Care is taken to manage bleeding during the procedure, and a special dressing is placed on the gums afterward. The patient may be given antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and a mouthwash to help with healing. A follow-up appointment is also scheduled.
Why Laser is better Than Scalpel?
The laser technique is generally considered superior because it causes less discomfort and damage to the gums compared to the scalpel method. It is also more effective in giving you the desired results with less trauma to the tissue.
Who is a Candidate?
Most people, except those with albinism, have some degree of natural melanin distribution in their gums. The primary requirement for gum depigmentation is that the gums must be healthy. However, this cosmetic treatment is not suitable for:
- Patients with active oral diseases
- Individuals whose dark gums are caused by periodontal disease (as this is not a pigmentation issue)
- People taking blood thinners (which can lead to excessive bleeding during the procedure)
- Patients with thin gum tissue or exposed tooth roots (as they may experience on-going sensitivity if the roots are inadvertently exposed during the treatment)
Why Teeth Care Centre?
Dr. Pankti Patel, our Chief Dentist and the best cosmetic dentist in Ahmedabad, is certified in Laser Dentistry from Germany. We employ a Biolase Laser Ablation unit which is one of the best brands for such gum treatment. The procedure conducted by our efficient team of doctors is painless, hassle-free and exceptional.