What does a black mark on gum mean if it appears suddenly?

There can be several reasons for the sudden appearance of a black mark on the gum. While in most cases it's something harmless and temporary, sometimes it can also indicate a more serious issue. Here are a few possible causes:

1. Trauma: If you have recently experienced an injury to your gum tissue, such as biting your cheek or a sharp object cutting your gum, it can cause a blood clot to form. This blood clot can appear as a black mark on the gum. Typically, such marks will disappear on their own within a few days as the healing process takes place.

2. Amalgam Tattoo: This occurs when a small piece of amalgam from an old dental filling becomes embedded in the gum tissue. Amalgam is a mixture of metals like silver, mercury, and copper that was commonly used in the past for dental fillings. If an amalgam filling breaks or is replaced, a fragment may accidentally get lodged in the gum. Amalgam tattoos are usually harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort.

3. Melanin Pigmentation: Melanin is a pigment that contributes to the color of our skin, hair, and eyes. It is also present in the gum tissue and can sometimes cause brown or black pigmentation. This is common and benign and does not pose any health risks.

4. Oral Cancer: In rare cases, a sudden appearance of a black mark on the gum could be a sign of oral cancer. Oral cancer can manifest as a dark, discolored patch or lump on the gums. If the black mark persists, changes in size or shape, or is associated with other symptoms like pain or bleeding, it's important to consult a dentist or oral surgeon for evaluation.

If you notice a black mark on your gum, it's recommended to schedule an appointment with your dentist for proper diagnosis. The dentist will assess the mark, evaluate your overall oral health, and determine if any treatment or further investigation is needed.