Black Gums: Causes and Symptoms

Black gums can be a normal pigmentation for people with dark skin tones. However, black gums or black patches on your gums that are new may indicate a health concern. Gum color varies from person to person. Black gums and other changes in gum color can be caused by a medical condition, medication, smoking, or other lifestyle factors.

The gums are tough tissues that surround and hold the teeth in place. They can range in color from red or pink to brown or black. Sometimes gums are black.

If you have black gums or noticed someone who had black gums you may ...