The appearance of healthy gum tissue is typically firm and a pale, coral pink color, though natural variations in melanin pigmentation can cause a darker tone. If your gums have taken on a grey hue, this abnormal presentation should be investigated by a professional. Grey gums are a symptom that almost always indicates an underlying local or systemic issue requiring attention and diagnosis. Understanding the potential causes, which range from harmless localized deposits to serious infections or toxicity, can help inform your next steps.
Pigmentation and Localized Causes of Grey Gums
One of the most common localized reasons for grey or dark discoloration is the presence of an amalgam tattoo. This benign mark occurs when tiny fragments of dental amalgam, the silver-colored metal mixture used in fillings, become embedded in the soft gum tissue during a dental procedure. The resulting spot is generally small, flat, and presents as a blue, black, or slate-grey patch, often found near a tooth with an amalgam filling.
Certain medications can also lead to localized grey or dark pigmentation. For example, the antibiotic minocycline, often prescribed for acne and some infections, can cause pigmentation changes in the gum tissue as an uncommon side effect. This discoloration is a localized deposit of the drug’s metabolites, and discussing the issue with a physician can determine if an alternative drug is available. Unlike infectious or systemic causes, these localized discolorations are generally not painful and are more of a cosmetic concern.
Acute Infections and Necrosis Leading to Grey Gums
A rapid and painful cause of grey gums is Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG), historically known as “Trench Mouth.” This severe, sudden-onset gum infection is characterized by an abnormal overgrowth of bacteria. The grey appearance is due to the death, or necrosis, of the gum tissue between the teeth, which forms a distinct grey or white layer of dead tissue on the surface.
ANUG symptoms are acute, including severe pain, easily bleeding gums, and foul-smelling breath (halitosis). The gums may appear “punched-out” between the teeth, and the individual may also experience systemic symptoms like fever and swollen lymph nodes. This aggressive infection is often triggered by factors that compromise the immune system, such as stress, poor oral hygiene, smoking, or malnutrition.
Systemic Health Conditions Indicated by Grey Gums
Grey or dark discoloration can indicate a systemic illness or toxicity. One historical example is heavy metal poisoning, such as chronic lead exposure, which causes a clinical sign known as Burton’s line. This presents as a thin, black-blue line visible along the gum margin where the gum meets the tooth.
The line forms from a chemical reaction between circulating lead and sulfur ions produced by oral bacteria, creating deposits of lead sulfide in the gum tissue. A similar, though less common, “bismuth line” can occur in individuals who have ingested bismuth compounds. While true heavy metal poisoning is rare, its presence often accompanies other widespread symptoms like neurological issues, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
When to Seek Professional Dental or Medical Care
Any new or unexplained change in gum color warrants a professional consultation, as determining the cause requires examination. If the grey discoloration is accompanied by acute symptoms, such as significant pain, swelling, bleeding, or fever, immediate dental attention is urgent. These signs suggest a severe infection like ANUG, which requires prompt treatment, including professional cleaning and possibly antibiotics, to prevent further tissue destruction.
If the discoloration is chronic, painless, and localized, such as an amalgam tattoo, a routine consultation with a dentist is appropriate to confirm the diagnosis. However, if the grey gums appear alongside systemic symptoms, including persistent nausea, uncharacteristic fatigue, or behavioral changes, consult a physician immediately. These broader symptoms suggest a systemic cause, such as toxicity or an underlying medical condition, requiring prompt medical intervention.