White Gums: A Clear & Concise Overview
We refer to the pink tone of the gums as healthy. That's why when some people notice white spots on their gums, they start to panic.
When you search for white gums on the internet, a lot of medical jargon is thrown at you. There are a couple of reasons behind this transition of colour.
If the white gums are caused by an underlying cause, you will most likely have other symptoms of the disease as well.
Without overloading your brain with information, let's explore white gums as clearly as possible.
Learn More: Gum Boil: Everything You Need To Know About It
What Is It Like To Have White Gums?
A lot of factors contribute to the shift from pink to white when the gums start to shift.
To name a few, genetics, teeth whitening treatments, gum diseases, infection, oral cancer, and the use of alcohol and tobacco can cause white spots on gums.
You may experience the following symptoms:
Softness of gums
Bad breath
Puffiness with redness
Sores
Dizziness
Weakened teeth
Discomfort
Causes of White Gums in Detail
Here is a list of all the problems that can cause white spots on gums:
1.Oral Thrush
This results from an overabundance of the Candida fungus building up in the mouth. This may result in the formation of creamy white or yellow patches on your tongue, cheeks, gums, or roof of your mouth.
Other than white gums, it may show the following symptoms:
Dry and sticky feeling in your mouth
Taste loss
Discomfort around the corners or within your mouth
The fungus Candida is found in most people's mouths in trace levels, but it is typically controlled by bacteria and other microorganisms in the body.
Some drugs, such as antibiotics, some types of birth control, and corticosteroid medications for asthma, can upset the equilibrium of the mouth. This may result in an overgrowth that can cause oral thrush.
2.Oral Lichen Planus
An autoimmune disease that can result in the development of white patches on the gums, tongue, and mouth tissues.
Additionally, oral lichen planus can result in open sores or tissue edema and redness.
It is a chronic condition that affects the immune system and targets the mouth's cells, mistaking them for foreign cells that need to be eliminated.
Oral lichen planus patients need to schedule frequent doctor's or dentist appointments in order because they are at a higher risk of acquiring oral cancer.
3.Leukoplakia
For white patches or spots of gums, the medical terminology for this condition is known as leukoplakia.
Even though these spots look soft and removable, they are difficult to remove with a toothbrush.
The gum tissue around leukoplakia is usually thinner than the leukoplakia itself, and it may become harder if you don't take action to treat it.
The white spot may be sensitive to touch or certain meals, particularly spicy or hot ones.
Patches of leukoplakia resolve naturally without medical intervention. For leukoplakia that doesn't go away, some doctors can recommend a topical retinoic acid ointment or an antiviral drug.
In this instance, the patch needs to be removed immediately to prevent the cancer from spreading, either by freezing, laser therapy, or a scalpel.
4.Pregnancy
Numerous hormonal changes that a woman undergoes during pregnancy can cause white gums or pimples to form on the gums.
Mostly, these white spots are not concerning. The body's heightened levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy can cause a variety of changes to your oral health.
For instance, pregnancy causes gum inflammation and a weakened immune system to germs in plaque as well.
Reducing inflammation and plaque accumulation during pregnancy can be achieved by maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes seeing your dentist on a regular basis and brushing and flossing twice a day.
To get more tips on maintaining oral health during pregnancy, here is an article.
5.Menopause
Similarly, gum colour changes in women going through menopause, changing from fleshy pink to white.
Again, hormonal changes that impact appearance throughout this phase are the reason behind white gums.
During this phase, menopausal gingivostomatitis may occur. Gums may become lighter or darker than usual, and bleeding may also occur.
6.Canker Sores
Small ulcers in the mouth that are yellow or white with a red border are called canker sores. Due to these, you may feel that you have white gums.
When you eat or drink acidic foods or drinks, they may sting or burn and cause pain.
The exact cause of canker stones is yet to be discovered. Canker sores are also unknown, but eating a lot of acidic foods, such as citrus fruits or tomatoes, can cause them.
The majority of canker sores normally disappear on their own in one to three weeks and are not usually a reason for concern.
7.Gum Recession
As you know, in gum recession, you may encounter pockets or gaps between the gum line and the teeth.
This facilitates the growth of microorganisms that cause bigger oral health issues. White spots may form if a tooth or root protrudes through receding gum tissue.
Furthermore, a large recession may make the gums appear paler since the underlying bone structure may appear yellowish.
This kind of disorder can cause tooth sensitivity or tooth loss in the worst cases.
8.Oral Cancer
White gums may occasionally be a sign of a more serious illness, such as oral cancer, often known as oral cancer
It spreads rapidly in your mouth. Due to this, your tongue, gums, and roof of your mouth can all be impacted by this cancer.
Small, thin, flat bumps may be visible in nearby areas of these regions. They could have flesh, crimson, or white hues.
If you have white gums because of oral cancer, here are the other indications to look for:
Bump on your throat
Swelling or a lip-sore
Difficulty in swallowing
Alterations in speech
Either bleeding or mouth numbness
Areas of white or red on the tongue, gums, or mouth
A sudden decrease in weight
9.Teeth Whitening
You may observe white gums after having your teeth professionally whitened.
However, there is no need to worry about it because the chemicals used to lighten your teeth only cause this temporary discoloration.
If you want a safe and painless whitening treatment for your teeth, Zoom whitening is a great option.
10.Tooth Extraction
Following a tooth extraction, it is normal to get white gums, just like with teeth whitening.
This is because the gums surrounding the extraction site are affected by the procedure.
Read More: Emergency Tooth Extraction: Your Guide in an Emergency
11.Gum Disease
Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the gums that is typically caused by excessive dental plaque buildup or bad oral hygiene practices.
Gum recession, tooth overgrowth, and the development of white gums can all be signs of gum disease.
Additional signs of gingivitis include:
Redness or inflammation near the gums
Teeth that are loose
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis and tooth decay without treatment.
The bacteria causing the illness should be treated as soon as it is discovered because this decay might eventually result in tooth loss.
12.Periodontal Abscess
Usually, periodontitis is the cause of abscesses. When a person has periodontitis, their gums move away from their teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can thrive.
Periodontal abscess leads to pus-filled pockets building up in the gum tissues.
This illness may cause yellow pus or tiny reddish-white balls to protrude from inflamed gums.
Additional signs and symptoms consist of:
High body temperature
A sharp ache close to the teeth
Facial and neck pain
Temperature sensitivity
Swelling, painful lymph nodes
13.Anemia
If you have white gums, you may be suffering from anemia, a medical disease in which your body produces fewer red blood cells than usual.
Red blood cells provide oxygen to all parts of your body, including tissue and organs.
When your gums aren't getting enough oxygen, the gums give a pale appearance.
The primary causes are eating a diet low in iron or vitamin B-12 and illnesses like Crohn's disease and celiac disease.
Crohn's disease is painful and has no definite treatment. It occurs when the digestive system tissues are inflamed, which can cause severe diarrhea, exhaustion, weight loss, and malnourishment.
Severe exhaustion is often the first sign of anemia, regardless of the underlying cause.
If you have the following problems, you may have anemia:
Breathlessness
Feeling cold
Lightheadedness
Headaches
Chest discomfort
Habits That Promote White Spot on Gums
At the end of the day, our daily routines and a few other aspects of our lifestyle have a significant impact on the health of our gums.
For a white spot on gums, the following lifestyle habits may be promoting it:
1.Use of Tobacco
Chewing tobacco and smoking both irritate the gum tissue, causing serious gum illnesses or ailments like leukoplakia. Try to reduce your smoking or give it up entirely.
2.Inadequate Oral Hygiene
Not getting enough brushing and flossing done can cause plaque to accumulate, which can lead to gingivitis and other gum problems.
Dental problems can be prevented to a minimum by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing every day, and occasionally using mouthwash.
3.Consumption of Too Much Alcohol
Alcohol can dry out the mouth, increasing the risk of gum disease and bacterial infections.
If you drink alcohol, make sure to use caution and give your teeth special attention.
How To Prevent a White Spot on Gums
The simplest method to maintain healthy gums is to practice regular oral hygiene.
Using the following tips can prevent a white spot on the gums:
Rinse the mouth with a fluoride-containing mouthwash once or twice a day. Brush or rinse after ingesting sugary meals or beverages.
Brush teeth for at least 120 seconds, twice a day, or more frequently.
Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, see a dentist on a regular basis and replace toothbrushes or toothbrush heads every few months.
Abstain from smoking and tobacco products.
Eating a balanced, wholesome diet is also crucial. There should be an abundance of whole grains, fruits, and veggies in this. Lean meats, beans, lentils, and chickpeas are important sources of iron that should be included in the diet.
FAQs
How can white gums be identified?
By performing a physical examination of the mouth, reviewing medical records, and taking additional tests like blood tests, X-rays, or cultures, a dentist or other healthcare professional can determine the source of white gums.
When should I visit a dentist for white gums?
If there are persistent white spots that don't disappear even with good oral hygiene practices, throat pain or discomfort, gum bleeding, or fever, you need medical help.
Can one avoid getting white gums?
Proper oral hygiene, a balanced diet, abstaining from tobacco, and scheduling routine dental exams can prevent white gums.
What are the reasons for white gums in a dog?
Cancer, parasitic infection, mouth ulcers, kidney and heart disease, dehydration, blood clotting, and bloating can cause white gums in dogs.
The Bottom Line
After reading this guide, you will be able to identify the cause of white gums and find a suitable treatment.
White gums can be treated with proper dental hygiene regimens, infection-related medications, diet modifications for nutritional deficiencies, and treatments for underlying illnesses.
To ensure that you don't face any serious complications, reach out to a trustworthy and professional dental care provider.