A normal healthy gum looks like flesh, pink in color, but may turn red if you have poor oral hygiene. In case you are wondering, “Why are my gums white?” Keep on reading this blog to know your answer. There are various reasons you can have white spots on gums; it mostly indicates an underlying problem that needs to be addressed immediately.
Causes of White Gums
Some of the common daily routine habits resulting in white gums include smoking tobacco, alcohol consumption or dentures, uneven cavity filling, crown placement, etc. Other than these, here are a few medical conditions linked to pale gums:
Leukoplakia
It is a condition in which white patches emerge on the gum tissues, the base of the mouth, inner cheeks, or the tongue. Brushing out these white spots from the gums is not possible; they are usually painless but may have sensitivity from certain triggers like hot food etc.
Treatment
The diagnosis is made after a biopsy of the white patched gums. For getting rid of this issue, lifestyle changes are a must and if you are a smoker, cutting that out from your routine is essential.
Canker Sores
Canker sores are ulcers that emerge in the inner layers of your oral cavity. They may grow on the cheeks, lips, underneath the tongue, or gums. They are painful on touch, and when they appear on the bottom gums, they turn white. But, if it is not in the form of spots, a canker sore is not the reason why your gums have changed their color.
Treatment
Fortunately, canker sores do not require medical attention and heal within a span of 2 weeks. However, if it does not and becomes worse, reach out to your nearest dentist for a quick examination. He will prescribe a mouth rinse or an ointment for relief.
Gingivitis
When bacteria manifests in the gums because of poor floss and brush regime, it starts inflammation in the gum tissues. The inflammation changes their appearance; the gums turn white and start receding from the line. Other symptoms that come along are:
- Bleeding gums while brushing
- Loose teeth
- Red colored gums
Treatment
A good oral hygiene regime consisting of floss and brushing works to keep this issue at bay. Moreover, deep dental cleaning, consisting of scaling and root planing twice a year, helps prevent this issue.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which is characterized by low levels of red blood cells in the human body, which are essential for transporting oxygen to every body organ. An adequate supply of oxygen is necessary for every part, every single cell of the body for proper functioning. Less number of healthy red blood cells means insufficient supply causing fatigue, laziness, shortness of breath, etc.
There are multiple causes of anemia, ranging from iron deficiency to lack of vitamin B-12 in the body. However, anemia may serve as an indicator for medical conditions like Crohn’s disease. As a result of this issue, your body tissues like skin and gums become pale or white.
Treatment
Dietary changes help a lot in recovering from this condition—additionally, iron and vitamin supplements aid in generating healthy cells for circulation.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is when a yeast infection grows inside the mouth. Thrush or oral candidiasis is most prevalent amongst babies and toddlers. Candidiasis presents itself with pale bumps all over the mouth cavity. It appears on the tongue, cheeks and may spread towards the gums, turning them white.
Treatment
It is easily handled using antifungal prescription medicine.
Conclusion
White gums are a clear indication of something going wrong in the body or oral cavity. Generally, the reasons are not worrisome. However, you must know the underlying causes of this issue. If you are looking for the best dentist in Houston, reach out to Vintage Smile Family Dentistry. Our experts are here for you; call now at 281 251 7770 for scheduling an appointment today.