What factors cause pale or white gums?
The fading of the gums may indicate that; a person suffering from iron deficiency anemia. But if the gums are white and painful, the cause may be more serious. When a person notices that the color of his gums is changing, especially if there are other symptoms associated with the change in the color of the gums, he should see a doctor or dentist in Canada. In this article, we will provide explanations about the whitening of the gums and their natural color change.
Causes and symptoms
In the following, we will explain a list of problems and diseases that cause the gums to change color:
Anemia or anemia
Anemia occurs when the body does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Lack of blood can make certain tissues pale. In addition to whitening or lighter gums, a person with anemia may experience the following symptoms:
- Inexplicable fatigue
- weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Skin discoloration
- Headache
- heart beat
Anemia is often caused by a deficiency of iron, folate, or vitamin B-12.
Some diseases and other problems can also lead to anemia or increase the risk of developing it. Some of these problems or diseases that can contribute to the whitening of the gums are:
- Very heavy menstruation
- pregnancy
- Liver, spleen or kidney problems and diseases
- Hypothyroidism
- Bleeding in the stomach or intestines, which can be caused by gastrointestinal ulcers, cancers, colitis, or inflammation of the colon.
Certain medications, especially chemotherapy drugs, can increase a person’s risk of developing anemia. Anemia may be treated with prescribed iron tablets for at least 6 months.
When very heavy menstrual periods have caused anemia, a person may benefit from hormonal drugs that reduce the duration of menstruation.
Some foods can interfere with the body’s absorption of iron. A person with anemia should avoid the following:
- coffee and tea
- alcohol
- Whole grain products
- dairy products
Leukoplakia
Oral leukoplakia can cause uniform, thin, white spots on the gums. Leukoplakia spots can appear anywhere in the mouth and cannot be removed or removed.
The main cause of this disease is unknown. But it seems to occur more often in people who smoke, drink too much alcohol, or have poor oral hygiene. In most cases, the white spots of leukoplakia are harmless. However, they can become cancerous. Anyone who notices these spots and whitening of their gums should talk to a doctor or dentist.
Menopause
Hormonal changes associated with menopause appear to decrease blood flow, which can cause white and dry gums. A type of infection called menopause gum infection can cause the gums to become pale and dry. In this infection, the possibility of gum bleeding is high.
Hormone therapy can treat the symptoms of this infection. If a fungal species is responsible for gum disease, a person may need to use topical antifungal creams, such as nystatin or clotrimazole.
Oral lichen planus
To diagnose this disease, the doctor usually prepares a biopsy from the damaged and abnormal part. There is no cure for oral lichen planus, and treatment focuses on limiting the number and severity of symptoms.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- stay hydrated
- Exercise
- And quitting smoking can help manage the condition.
When should you see a doctor?
Pale gums are one of the common signs and symptoms of anemia. And mild anemia can be controlled by increasing iron intake at home. However, severe cases of anemia can be life-threatening.
Talk to your doctor or dentist about whitening your gums as soon as possible. Early and timely treatment can reduce the risk of complications.
If the following symptoms related to gum infection are accompanied by discoloration of the gums, see a doctor:
- Bleeding from the gums
- Swollen, painful or sensitive gums
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Fever
- Tooth loosening
- Difficulty or pain in swallowing
- Gum abscess
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Jaw or face pain
Anyone who notices abnormal spots or lesions in their mouth or gums should see their doctor or dentist to discuss their treatment options.
If whitening gums are associated with menopause or heavy menstrual periods, you may want to talk to your doctor about hormone therapy. Hormone therapy can improve symptoms.
Tips for healthy gums
Paying attention to the following can improve your oral and dental hygiene and prevent your teeth from whitening:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Floss every day
- Rinse the mouth once or twice a day with a solution containing fluoride
- Brush your teeth after eating or drinking sugary drinks.
- Replace your toothbrush every few months.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
- Visit the dentist regularly
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products
It is also important to have a healthy and balanced diet. This diet should include a lot of fruits, vegetables and grains.
