Q: Can coffee intake, smoking or bruxism darken the gums? I quit smoking couple of months ago, but I am a heavy coffee drinker and I grind my teeth at night. These are the only things I can think of that seem to relate to the problem of dark gums. I have recently started wearing a mouth piece at night due to the problem of bruxism. I don't know how long it has been, but I have recently found that the gum area of bottom and upper front teeth are stained black and looks as if it is bruised. Only the gum area between my bottom teeth is stained the rest is fine. I am worried about my gum condition. What are the possible causes and treatments for such a condition?

A:Some amount of black pigmentation of the gums is normal. Also this can increase and decrease at various times without being harmful. Excessive smoking can cause changes in the gums. Your dentist will clear all further doubts when you consult him.