Ozan YALÇIN, Filiz ACUN KAYA
Journal of Dental Sciences and Education - 2026;4(1):29-37
Gingival pigmentation refers to discoloration in the gingival tissues caused by the accumulation of endogenous or exogenous pigments. Endogenous pigmentations are related to the accumulation of pigments such as melanin, hemoglobin, hemosiderin, and carotene in the oral and gingival tissues. This group includes pigmentations resulting from physiological melanin accumulation as well as those associated with systemic diseases such as Addison's disease, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, and neurofibromatosis. Exogenous pigmentations may be caused by factors such as amalgam tattoos, heavy metal exposure, and drug-induced discolorations. In the present review vascular lesions such as varicose veins and hemangiomas, as well as melanin-based lesions such as nevi and melanoma, are also included in the current review. Additionally, the process of pregnancy and other hormonal changes on pigmentation has been addressed. Correctly and clearly identifying the underlying cause of gingival pigmentation, which is a clinical condition, is of great importance for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment planning. In the present study, gingival and oral mucosal pigmentations were comprehensively classified and evaluated based on their etiologies, clinical appearances, and histological features. It is aimed to contribute to the clinical diagnosis and differential diagnosis processes of various oral and particularly gingival pigmentations encountered by clinicians.
