What does “Gingival depigmentation” mean?
Gum whitening primarily refers to treatments that improve the appearance of the gums by reducing their pigmentation. The subject and method are different from teeth whitening, which involves applying a whitening agent to teeth.
Original spelling: 잇몸미백
First, check the cause of the darkening.
The color of the gums is influenced by normal pigment distribution and individual differences. Just because it's dark doesn't mean it's sick or needs treatment. Other causes, such as smoking, drugs, trauma, or lesions, can also be identified through a questionnaire and examination.
Lesions with recent unilateral color change, increasingly enlarged spots, bleeding, or ulceration should be evaluated prior to aesthetic treatment.
This is a different treatment from teeth whitening.
Laser or surgical methods may be used to treat pigmented gum tissue. The application method, depth, and recovery management are different, so the decision is made according to the individual's gum condition and purpose.
Gum reshaping or crown lengthening to adjust gum display has a different goal from treatment to reduce pigmentation. These should not be understood as the same treatment. Depigmentation also does not replace treatment for gum inflammation.
Recovery and recoloring
After treatment, follow the hygiene and diet instructions provided to avoid irritating the wound area. We cannot guarantee that the color will remain the same permanently as the pigment may reappear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dark gums mean they are unhealthy?
Your gums may appear dark due to normal melanin pigment. For new color changes or changes in one area, the cause should be checked separately.
If I whiten my gums, will my teeth become whiter?
Treatments that treat gum pigment and teeth whitening target different tissues. You need to distinguish whether what you want to improve is the color of your teeth or your gums.
If you remove the gum pigment, won't it come back?
Pigmentation may reappear even after treatment, and the appearance varies from person to person. Check the limitations of the method used and the possibility of recovery or recurrence.
3 things to check before choosing gum whitening
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Does the clinic distinguish between normal pigmentation and color changes that require diagnosis?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic explains the treatment needed based on the current state of tooth decay and the gums. The treatment extent is determined from the diagnosis.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Sufficient understanding
Does the clinic explain aesthetic choices and treatment of gum disease separately?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic explains why treatment options differ according to the extent of tooth decay. Ask during consultation if you are unsure about a location recorded in your dental notes.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Care after treatment
Does the clinic explain recovery and the possibility of pigmentation returning?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic provides guidance on hygiene and regular check-ups after gum treatment. Ask about care suited to your teeth and gum condition.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together
