the color
The color of healthy gums is often described as bright pink. Other colors are indicative of pathological lesions, such as bright red in acute gingivitis and dark red to bluish red in chronic gingivitis. Excess melanin deposits can cause dark spots or spots on the gums (hyperpigmentation). gums with melanin), especially at the base of the interdental papillae. Smoking or drug use can also cause discoloration (such as “methamphetamine mouth”). Although healthy gums are described as coral pink, the difference in the color of healthy gums from one person to another can be the result of factors such as: gum thickness, degree of keratinization in the epithelium, blood flow to the gums, normal skin pigmentation, and organic diseases. What, taking certain medications that will affect the color of the gums. Despite this, ethnic differences play a role in the degree of coloration of the gums in the state of health, meaning that in the brown race, for example, we may see the gums in a dark color and even pigmented in a black color of melanin pigment without that meaning any pathological manifestation, and therefore we rely more on diagnosing the disease Gingival color homogeneity more than the color itself.
Gum depigmentation (also known as gum whitening) is a procedure used in cosmetic dentistry to remove this pigmentation. Laser is used as a modern technology in this regard, so that the laser can target the melanocytes and reduce the production of melanin in the gum tissue. A study found that the use of an (Er, Cr: YSGG) laser was effective and there were no signs of repigmentation after a 6-month follow-up period.
contour
Healthy gums have a smooth, knife-like contour around the neck of the tooth. And the papillae occupy completely the entire space between the teeth and in a triangular shape, but when the gums become inflamed and swollen, the edges become rounded and swollen.
texture
Healthy gums have a firm texture that is resistant to movement, and the surface texture often shows stippling on the surface. On the other hand, unhealthy gums are often swollen and less firm. Healthy gums have an orange-peel-like texture due to dripping.
texture
The texture of healthy gums is a cohesive, elastic texture that is resistant to movement. The surface of the adherent gums is grainy and lobed like an orange peel. In cases of acute inflammation, it becomes loose and spongy, and in cases of chronic gingivitis, the texture becomes coherent and fibrous more than normal.
reaction to disturbance
Normally healthy gums do not react to normal disturbances such as brushing or periodontal examination. Conversely, unhealthy gums will show bleeding on examination (BOP) and/or purulent discharge.
