What Causes Black Gums?

      Teeth may become easily sensitive to hot, cold, or hard foods. Compared with the relatively hard teeth, gums appear much softer and are therefore naturally more susceptible to injury and problems. When gums turn black, it may signal an underlying issue; such discoloration—especially when progressing to black or purple—should never be underestimated. So, what causes black gums?

What Causes Black Gums?

Blackening of the gums may result from acquired unhealthy lifestyle habits. For instance, chronic smoking exposes the gums to nicotine in tobacco, which constricts gum blood vessels and leads to darkening or purplish discoloration. To address this, one should consume lighter, less stimulating foods; limit coffee intake; avoid staying up late; correct improper chewing habits; and improve poor gum circulation. Chewing food slowly promotes better blood circulation in the gums, supporting periodontal health. Additionally, breaking the habit of consistently chewing on only one side of the mouth can help alleviate gum discoloration. In some cases, black gums may be non-pathological and untreated—for example, in individuals who, during childhood, consumed local drinking water of poor quality, or whose gums absorbed and accumulated trace heavy metals (e.g., lead or mercury) from poorly fabricated dental prostheses. Such cases require prompt intervention and gradual recovery. Moreover, some otherwise healthy individuals have naturally occurring melanin pigmentation in their gums. In daily life, they should minimize consumption of highly pigmented foods to prevent further pigment deposition.

Black gums may also stem from internal dental diseases—for example, abnormalities in gingival blood vessels, gingival necrosis, dental plaque or calculus accumulation, poor oral hygiene leading to soft debris buildup on the gums, or gingivitis localized near the gingival margin. In such instances, a visit to a dental professional is essential to prevent disease progression. Patients should cultivate sound oral hygiene practices: brushing thoroughly after every meal—or at least twice daily—to remove plaque and food debris from interdental spaces, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth and reducing gingivitis risk. Rinsing after meals, using dental floss and toothpicks correctly to eliminate residual food particles and bacteria lodged between teeth and gums, and regular professional cleanings (or following dentist-recommended home care regimens) are all critical components of effective prevention.

Individuals experiencing black gums should seek timely medical evaluation and treatment to prevent complications or progression to more serious conditions. We hope this information proves helpful.