What Is Depigmentation?

Pigmentation is the color of the skin, and depigmentation is a procedure which allows for the skin's color to be changed. Some people may not be happy with the color of their gum tissue and want it lightened. This can often be the case when a person has an amalgam tattoo, but can also be true for others.  Periodontist Dr. Denine Rice is able to treat this condition by using a specialized laser.   

 

 Depigmentation allows for lightening the skin's color in the mouth.  An amalgam tattoo is a coloring of the skin or gum tissue where you may have a filling. It can be grey, blue or black and can look like you have a tattoo in your mouth. "It can be embarrassing when you open your mouth and there is a spot in your that looks like decay,"Dr. Denine Rice.

This is a unique procedure and you may find it is difficult to find someone with experience. As with any procedure, you will want to ask your dentist for photos of other patients they have conducted this procedure with.