What is Gum Bleaching? (Melanin Depigmentation)
Gum Bleaching, or Gum Lightening is a procedure that removes excess pigment in the gums. Gum tissue that is dark or black rather than pink can make even the brightest smile less appealing. Excess melanin can build up in the gums, making them look brown or black instead of pink. The extra pigment does not indicate any disease or dysfunction. Patients seek treatment because of an aesthetic preference for pink gums that showcase their teeth better.
Other cases for dark gums include smoking, side effects from certain medications and possible effects of amalgam fillings on the gum.
Other cases for dark gums include smoking, side effects from certain medications and possible effects of amalgam fillings on the gum.
Treatment Process.
Laser Gum Depigmentation (Gum Bleaching) vaporizes and removes a thin top layer of the gum tissue, destroying the cells that produce melanin. As new tissue is created during healing, it tends to be pink rather than brown.
Melanin is a natural pigment which contributes to the endogenous pigmentation of the gingiva and causes the presence of dark spots. The degree of pigmentation varies from one individual to another. This is mainly determined by the melanoblastic activity.
Recently, laser ablation has been recognized as one of the most effective, comfortable and reliable techniques. Treatment of gingival hyperpigmentation bay waterlase radiation in a defocused mode is a safe and effective procedure.
