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Gum Depigmentation
A laser lightens dark gums by removing the thin pigmented layer. Dark gums are normally harmless, so this is a cosmetic choice and we check first that nothing else is going on.
The colour of your gums comes mostly from melanin, the same pigment that gives skin its colour. Dark brown or blackish gums are very common in people with darker skin tones and are not a sign of disease. Nothing needs treating.
Some people dislike how much gum shows when they smile, and ask to have it lightened. In depigmentation, a surgical dental laser removes the thin outer layer of pigmented gum, and new pink tissue grows in underneath over the next couple of weeks.
Our dentists and our gum specialist do this at our clinic. Before offering it we confirm the dark patches are ordinary pigment, because a single dark spot that is new or changing needs a different kind of look.
When gum depigmentation can help
- Dark brown or black gums that you feel self-conscious about when smiling
- Patchy pigment across the upper front gums
- A smile where a lot of gum is visible, so the colour stands out
- Healthy gums, with no pain, swelling or bleeding
- Plans for other cosmetic work, such as veneers, where even gum colour improves the overall look
Your options
Laser depigmentation
The surgical laser removes the pigmented surface layer with little bleeding. The gum is left to heal on its own without stitches in most cases.
Scalpel or bur technique
Older methods remove the same layer with a blade or rotating tool. They work, but bleed more, and a dressing is usually needed. We use the laser here, and the result with either method depends on the individual.
What happens, step by step
- 1
Examination
We look at the pattern of pigment, check the gums are healthy, and photograph the area. If you have gum inflammation or tartar, we treat that first.
- 2
Numbing
A topical gel or a small injection can be used to numb the gum. You are awake during the procedure.
- 3
Laser removal of the pigmented layer
The laser is passed slowly across the dark gum in thin passes. This takes a short time per section. You may feel mild warmth, and we work in sections if a large area is involved.
- 4
Healing check
The gum looks pale or red and feels tender for a few days, then turns pink as new tissue forms. We see you after a week or two to check healing.
Want the detail?
Laser Gum Treatment: What It Treats and Why →
Real Patient Results
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Gum depigmentation - melanin removal
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After treatment
- Expect some soreness for two to three days. We prescribe pain relief if you need it.
- Eat soft, cool food and avoid spicy, hot or sharp-edged items for a few days.
- Brush the area gently with a soft brush and use any rinse we recommend.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco, which slow healing and can bring pigment back.
- Protect the area from rough toothbrush pressure until the pink tissue is firm.
When we suggest something else
The honest first option is to leave them as they are. Dark gums are usually healthy, and there is normally no medical reason to treat them. If the only reason is how the gums look in photographs, take your time to decide.
Pigment can return in some people over the years, since the cells that make melanin are still present in the deeper gum. Smoking can also darken gums. We cannot say in advance whether or when it will return for you, so the result may need a touch-up later and may not last.
Cost
What changes the cost
- How much gum is treated, upper only or upper and lower
- How deep and widespread the pigment is
- Whether gum health work is needed before depigmentation
- Whether it is combined with other cosmetic work
- Follow-up visits for healing review
Visit us for a detailed quote. We examine your teeth and give you a written estimate before any treatment starts.
Who treats you
- Dr. (Lt.Col) Suresh Isawe, Founder & Senior Surgeon (BDS (Mumbai, 1981), PGDPC, MIAO (USA))
- Dr. Aanchal Sahni, Periodontology & Oral Implantology (MDS (PGI Rohtak), BDS (ESIC New Delhi))
Questions patients ask
Are dark gums a sign of disease?
Usually not. Natural melanin pigment is the most common reason, and it runs in families. Certain medicines and smoking can also darken gums, so we ask about those. A single dark spot that is new or growing should be examined.
Is gum depigmentation painful?
The gum is numbed first, so you should feel little during the procedure. After it, the area is sore like a scrape for a few days. Pain relief and soft food help.
How long does the colour change last?
Results vary. Some people keep a lighter gum for years, but pigment can return in others, because the pigment-making cells are not all removed. We do not promise a fixed duration.
How long does healing take?
Surface healing usually takes one to two weeks, and the pink colour settles over a few weeks after that.
Can both upper and lower gums be treated?
Yes. Most people ask for the upper gums since they show in a smile. The lower ones can be treated too, in the same visit or a later one.
Can I eat normally after the treatment?
Stick to soft, lukewarm food for the first few days. Normal eating resumes as the soreness goes.
Typical Duration
Usually about 30 to 45 minutes
Visit Us in Malad West
A-102, Marve Link Appt., 1st Floor, Marve Road, Mith Chowky, Malad (W), Mumbai 400064
- Monday – Saturday: 10:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed