Gums are not entirely the focused part of our oral cavity. In some cases, people are not sure that their healthy gums should have a pink appearance. However, your gums can turn white because of certain conditions such as gum disease, infection, or oral health negligence.
White gums sometimes indicate oral cancer. This is why affected individuals should not delay a visit to the dentist as soon as they identify even the slightest change in the color of their gums.
White Gums – Causes
There are many causes of gums becoming white. Some of them are mentioned below:
Leukoplakia
It is the most common reason why white patches or spots appear on the gums which are not removable via brushing. Mostly, the case of white spot growing on the gums is harmless but, in some cases, may serve as a precancerous sign. Researchers are not sure about the exact reasons for this problem; however, smoking tobacco is linked to it.
Anemia
It is the condition in which the body lacks healthy red cells that results in anemia. These cells have the duty of transporting oxygen around the body to the cells that need them. The most common causes of anemia are deficiency of iron and vitamin B13 collectively, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease. Anemic people also have white patches or bumps on their gums.
Some of the signs include:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Heartbeat issues
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
Oral thrush
A condition also referred to as candidiasis is a yeast infection that is the main reason for a raised white sore. In the oral cavity, inner cheeks, the tongue, and gums suffer the wrath of oral thrush.
Gingivitis
It a type of mild periodontal disease. It is one of the gum conditions that affect approximately 50% of the total American population. The main reason for this is dental hygiene ignorance. The gums, as a result, turn swollen and red in color; on the other hand, the teeth start to become loose as well. With that, the gums may start turning white and push back from their line.
Canker sores
Mouth ulceration or canker sores grow in the mouth and on gums as well. Such sores result in irritation and pain, mainly at the time of eating or drinking and speaking. The sore formation on the gums turns them white. These ulcerations are white and round or oval with a pale center and red outline.
Tooth extraction
The gum tissues surrounding the tooth extraction site may turn them white in appearance. However, their color will return back to their original form within a few days’ time.
Conclusion
White gums around your teeth can indicate severe problems in the future if left untreated. That is why you should notify your dentist of any change in the appearance, such as the color or texture of the gums. Our experts at Katy Cypress Oral Surgery and Implant Center are always at your service. Connect with us at 281 667 0607 for any dental advice.