What is Gum Depigmentation?
Genetics are the most common cause of darker gum pigments for patients. High levels of melanin accumulates up in the gums and can make them look brown or black rather than the normal pink color. This is more commonly found in patients of certain ethnic groups such as those who are African or Middle Eastern. While the extra pigment is noticeable, it does not mean that the patient has disease or health issues. In many cases, patients pursue treatment for the condition due to cosmetic concerns. Patients often prefer pink gums for an attractive smile.
Other common causes for dark gums can include smoking, a side effect of certain medications, and a potential effect on the gums from amalgam fillings.
Laser gum depigmentation, or gum bleaching, vaporizes and removes the top layer of the gum tissue. This layer of tissue is quite thin. The cells which produce melanin are then destroyed. New tissue which grows during the healing process is typically pink in color. The dentist may use a local anesthetic during the treatment. The procedure has a relatively short recovery time with and there is minimal discomfort. Depending on the color and severity of the dark patches, it may take multiple sessions to accomplish the desired results.
Below are answers to commonly asked questions related to the depigmentation procedure.
Recovery
The dental laser causes minimal discomfort and complications are extremely rare. It is possible for patients with sensitive gums to experience some slight discomfort immediately following the procedure, however, this is temporary. Patients can resume their routine activities immediately following the treatment. This includes eating and speaking normally. The mouth should be completely healed in about two weeks.
Treatment
Gum depigmentation treatment is extremely effective and can last for 20 years or a lifetime.
The procedure takes about 20-45 minutes. The length of treatment can vary based on the size and darkness of the discoloration. The dentist will inject a local anesthetic to ensure the patient remains comfortable during the procedure.
Additional Treatments
Patients will have a follow up appointment after the treatment. During the follow up appointment, the dentist can go over the areas again if the desired pigmentation has not been achieved.
Smoking
Patients should stop smoking following the procedure. Smoking is one of the main causes of pigmentation issues. At a minimum, patients need to stop smoking for at least a week following the procedure while the mouth is healing.
Cost
On average, the cost for depigmentation can range from about $800-$1200. There are numerous factors which can impact the cost such as the severity of the issue, area which requires treatment, the patient’s geographical location, and the dentist performing the procedure.
Candidates for Depigmentation
In order to undergo depigmentation, the patient must have healthy gums. The dentist will complete an evaluation of the patient’s gum’s and oral health during the initial consultation.
Patients with the following conditions are not good candidate for gum depigmentation:
- Untreated oral health issues
- Gum disease
- Certain medications such as blood thinners
- Patients with thin gum tissue or prominent tooth roots
- Patients who smoke and are unable to stop smoking for treatment
Follow up with your dentist to determine if you may be a good candidate for gum depigmentation. The dentist can answer any questions related to the procedure.