Why have my gums gone purple?

Generally, gums are pink, but sometimes they develop black or dark brown marks or they may become redder or purple. Various things can cause this, most of which are not harmful. Sometimes, however, purple inflamed gums or gums with black spots can indicate a more serious complaint.

Factors that influence the colour of gums

Melanin

For many people with dark or unequally pigmented gums, the response may simply lie in the presence of melanin. When we have a lot of melanin, our skin tones are darker. Melanin permits the skin to become tanned and a shortage is what causes it to burn.

A high rate of melanin causes a dark or irregular pigmentation in the gums.

Smoking

Tobacco may also cause the colour of the gums to change. This process is known as Smoker’s melanosis. The gums may turn purple or brown. The palate and the inside of the cheeks can also be affected by this change.

Also, since tobacco is harmful, purple or brown gums can be a sign of gum disease or even oral cancer.

Periodontitis

Periodontal disease is the main reason why the gums acquire a brown colour. As this condition worsens, gums may become inflamed and change appearance. The purple colouring is only a sign.

Gum disease, if not treated, can cause deep infections, which do not only affect the gum tissue but also the teeth and bones holding the gums.

What to do if my gums change colour

It is important that any change in the appearance of your gums is assessed by a dentist to rule out possible pathologies or to seek treatment solutions if these pathologies already exist.