The gums are naturally pink in colour, but due to poor oral hygiene habits and negligence of the mouth, they can turn white. If this is the case, it’s important to consult a dentist as soon as possible because it could be an indication of some serious health issues including certain types of cancer.
A common cause of white gums is anemia, which occurs when the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. This condition can be caused by a lack of vitamin B12 and iron in the diet, as well as inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s disease. In addition to having pale skin, people with anemia often have white patches on their lips and tongue.
Another reason why your gums may be white is because of a dental procedure such as tooth extraction or teeth whitening. These procedures require the use of chemical-based products that may temporarily affect the gums. As a result, the gums appear paler and white after the treatment but should return to their normal color within a few hours.
A white spot on the gums may also be a sign of the oral disease leukoplakia. This disease causes the gums, tongue, and the roof of the mouth to develop small, flat, and thin bumps that are white, red, or flesh-colored. Leukoplakia can be triggered by excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco usage, poorly fitting dental appliances, or mouth injury. This condition is not dangerous, but it can be uncomfortable and may lead to pain.