Overview
Shiny, white teeth are frequently the first thing that springs to mind when you think of a dazzling, healthy-smile. However, healthy gums are a key, if not the most important, component of a good smile. A healthy smile has gum tissue that is naturally pink in color, fits tightly around the teeth without periodontal pockets, does not cover the teeth with excessive gum tissue creating a gummy smile, and has not deteriorated as a result of periodontal disease, meaning the gums have not worn away as is the case with gum recession.
Gum pigmentation is not a medical problem and is thus seen as a cosmetic operation performed to improve the looks of one's smile. Dark gums can influence many people's self-esteem and confidence when speaking and smiling.