Are Your Gums Ageing? The Truth About Purple Gums

Intro

Have you noticed your gums turning an unusual shade of purple? If so, you’re not alone. Purple gums are becoming increasingly common and often leave people wondering if they’re a sign of ageing or something more serious. In this blog post, we will explore the truth about purple gums, what causes them, and what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

Understanding the Causes of Purple Gums

As we age, our bodies go through many changes. Some of these changes can affect the appearance of our gums, causing them to appear discoloured or purple. While ageing may be a factor, it is important to note that there are other potential causes of purple gums that should not be ignored.

Gum disease is a common cause of discoloured gums. This condition can cause the gums to become inflamed and infected, leading to a change in colour. The purple look might be a sign that there is a lack of oxygen and nutrients getting to the gum tissues, which can cause them to die off.

Smoking is another culprit that can lead to purple gums. Smoking tobacco can cause the gums to lose blood flow, which can result in discolouration. This is why many smokers have a pink or black colour to their gums.

Certain medications can also cause discoloured gums as a side effect. Antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and chemotherapy drugs are just a few examples of medications that have been known to cause gum discoloration.

In some cases, poor oral hygiene can also contribute to the discolouration of gums. This can happen when bacteria accumulate in the mouth and cause infections that lead to changes in gum colour.

Gum Disease and Purple Gums

Gum disease is a common cause of purple gums. Also known as periodontal disease, it is a bacterial infection that damages the soft tissue and bones that support the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.

In the early stages of gum disease, the gums may appear red and swollen. As the disease progresses, they can become discoloured and turn purple or black. This is due to the breakdown of tissue and the build-up of toxins in the gums.

Other symptoms of gum disease include bad breath, loose teeth, and receding gums. If you suspect you may have gum disease, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. A dental professional can help to remove the plaque and bacteria that cause the disease and recommend further treatment if necessary.

Prevention is the best defence against gum disease. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help to remove plaque and prevent the build-up of bacteria. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and beverages can also help to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

In addition to good oral hygiene, it’s important to have regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can spot the early signs of gum disease and recommend treatment before it becomes more serious.

If you notice that your gums are discoloured or any other unusual symptoms, don’t ignore them. Seek advice from a dental professional who can diagnose and treat the underlying cause. With proper care and attention, you can keep your gums healthy and prevent gum disease from affecting your oral and overall health.

Smoking and Its Effect on Gum Color

Smoking is not only bad for your lungs, but it can also cause a range of oral health problems. The chemicals found in tobacco products can cause your gums to turn a purple hue. Smoking damages your immune system and makes it harder for your body to fight off gum disease. This leads to inflamed gums and even tooth loss.

One study found that smokers were four times more likely to have periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that affects the tissue surrounding the teeth. Smoking also weakens the gums, making them more susceptible to infection. As a result, gums may change colour and become purple or dark pink.

While the best course of action is to quit smoking altogether, reducing your intake can help improve your gum health and restore a healthy pink colour. A dental professional can recommend treatments and products, like a special toothbrush or mouthwash, to help reduce gum inflammation caused by smoking.

It’s also essential to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, including regular dental cleanings. This will help keep your gums healthy and prevent discoloration. Remember, smoking not only affects your physical health but also your oral health, so quit today and help restore your smile to its natural pink state.

Medications That Cause Discoloured Gums

While purple gums may be a sign of ageing or smoking, it’s important to note that certain medications can also cause discoloured gums. These medications are typically used to treat health conditions such as epilepsy, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

One of the most common medications that cause discoloured gums is Dilantin, which is used to treat epilepsy. Dilantin can cause gums to turn pink or purple, which can be alarming. Other medications, such as minocycline (an antibiotic used to treat acne), can cause black discoloration of the gums.

If you are taking any of these medications and notice that your gums are discoloured, it’s important to talk to your dentist or doctor. They can determine whether the medication is the cause of the problem and may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.

It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent further gum problems. In some cases, your dentist may recommend professional cleaning or gum surgery to treat severe gum disease or discoloured gums.

How to Prevent and Treat Purple Gums

Now that you know the potential causes of purple gums, let’s talk about how to prevent and treat them.

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: One of the best ways to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill any bacteria that may be present in your mouth.

2. Quit Smoking: Smoking can cause a host of dental problems, including purple gums. If you’re a smoker, try to quit as soon as possible. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor or join a smoking cessation program.

3. Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. Your dentist will be able to detect any signs of gum disease and offer treatment options before the condition worsens.

4. Use Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help keep your gums healthy. You can take a supplement or eat foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, kiwis, and strawberries.

5. Treat Gum Disease: If you already have gum disease, it’s important to treat it promptly. Your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, which is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.

In summary, purple gums may be a sign of aging or medication side effects, but they can also be a symptom of gum disease or smoking. To prevent and treat purple gums, practice good oral hygiene, quit smoking, visit your dentist regularly, use vitamin C, and treat gum disease promptly. With these simple steps, you can maintain healthy, pink gums for years to come.

The Conclusion

If you have noticed purple or discoloured gums, it is important to pay attention to this potential sign of oral health issues. While ageing and medications can cause changes in gum colour, it may also indicate a more serious problem like gum disease or smoking-related issues. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding tobacco products are all key ways to prevent and treat discoloured gums. If you are concerned about the colour of your gums, speak to your dentist for advice and guidance on maintaining optimal oral health.