The Normal and Pathological Pigmentation of Oral Mucous Membrane: A Review

Abstract

Pigmentation is both the normal and abnormal discoloration of oral mucous membrane. Pigmentation has multifactorial etiology. Most of the pigmentation is physiologic but sometimes it can be a precursor of severe diseases. Melanin pigment irregularities and color changes of the oral tissues could provide significant diagnostic evidence of both local and systemic disease. The differential diagnosis, clinical, etiology, and histopathological features of pigmentation are discussed and the current literature is reviewed. Citation Çiçek Y. The Normal and Pathological Pigmentation of Oral Mucous Membrane: A Review. J Contemp Dent Pract 2003 August;(4)3:076-086.

Gingival Depigmentation Using Lasers: A Literature Review

“…hyperpigmentation manifests as disseminated dark purple pigments or irregular brown or light brown spots. These patterns are variable in different age groups and races [1][2][3][4][5]. Light skinned individuals are expected to have non-pigmented gingiva and dark skinned individuals are more likely to have pigmented gingival tissue.…”

Split-Mouth Comparison of Pain and Healing Associated With the Electrocautery and Bur Abrasion Methods in the Treatment of Depigmentation: A Case Report

“…Gingival health ratings range from light pink to dark red or violet. Skin becomes dark due to a naturally occurring chemical called melanin pigmentation [2]. Every race has gingival melanin pigmentation [3].…”

“…The desire of the patient for a better appearance is the main indication for undergoing depigmentation. Technique selection should always rely on individual preferences and clinical background, as these factors yield better outcomes [2]. The patient's request for cosmetic enhancement serves as the first sign that the procedure is necessary [5].…”

Long-Term Esthetically Depigmented Gingiva in a Short Operative Duration, Using Two Modes of 940 nm Diode Lasers—A Randomized Clinical Trial

“…Melanin is a brown pigment that appears as a result of melanin granules produced by melanocytes of the basal and suprabasal layers of the gingival epithelium [ 1 , 2 ]. It is a natural pigment that contributes to the predominantly endogenous pigmentation of gingiva and oral mucosa [ 2 ].…”

“…Melanin is a brown pigment that appears as a result of melanin granules produced by melanocytes of the basal and suprabasal layers of the gingival epithelium [ 1 , 2 ]. It is a natural pigment that contributes to the predominantly endogenous pigmentation of gingiva and oral mucosa [ 2 ]. This natural pigmentation arises as an aesthetic complaint that requires treatment, mainly if it is noticeable during speech or smiling, as seen in patients with gummy smiles [ 3 , 4 ].…”