Medically reviewed by Dr. Aditi Jain, BDS, MDS · Periodontist & Oral Implantologist · with 15 years of experience·Last reviewed 11 June 2026
Gum depigmentation is a gentle laser procedure that lightens dark patches on the gums by lifting away the thin pigmented surface layer, so the gums look a more even, healthy pink. At Surekha Dental Clinic in Mulund West, Mumbai, gum depigmentation (also called pink gums treatment) is carried out by periodontist Dr. Aditi Jain under local anaesthetic, so you should feel little to no pain during the procedure. It suits anyone who feels self-conscious about brown or blackish gums showing when they smile. The dark colour comes from extra melanin in the gum tissue, sometimes linked to habits like smoking, and is usually harmless, so the treatment is about confidence in your smile rather than dental health. If dark gums are holding back your smile, our friendly team is here to talk you through your options.
Dark gums are usually just a cosmetic concern, but other gum changes can point to gum disease that a periodontist should check. See a dentist soon if you notice any of the following, as treating gum problems early is usually simpler and protects the teeth.
Gums that bleed when you brush, floss or eat
Red, swollen or tender gums instead of firm, healthy pink ones
Gums that have pulled back, making teeth look longer than before
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste that does not clear with brushing
Teeth that feel loose, or a bite that has started to feel different
Pus or a small pimple-like bump along the gum line
Step by step
Here is exactly what happens during your gum depigmentation, step by step.
1Step 1 of 3
How is the gum numbed before the treatment?
Your gum depigmentation starts with making the dark areas of gum completely comfortable, so the rest of the sitting is easy. A small amount of local anaesthetic is gently injected across the pigmented gum being treated, which blocks the feeling from that tissue. Within a few minutes the gum and the area around it feel fully numb, so you should feel little to no pain while the laser works, only a light sense of touch. The periodontist treats just the gum surface that shows the dark colour, not the teeth or the deeper tissue underneath. Once you are properly numb and comfortable, you are ready for the laser step, and there is no rush to begin until the area is fully settled.
2Step 2 of 3
How does the laser lighten the dark gums?
Once the gum is numb, the periodontist uses a fine diode laser to lighten the colour, which is the heart of the treatment. The slim laser fibre tip is moved in light, brush-stroke passes over the dark gum, gently lifting away the thin pigmented surface layer that holds the extra melanin. A softer touch-up pass then evens out any patches that are still a little dark, so the colour looks consistent across the smile. The laser also seals tiny blood vessels as it works, which means very little bleeding and a clean, controlled procedure. As the area is numb, you should feel only mild warmth, nothing sharp. This is the step that reveals the fresher, lighter pink underneath, and most patients are surprised by how quickly it is done.
3Step 3 of 3
What is the healing dressing for?
After the laser work, the periodontist applies a thin healing gel or dressing over the treated gum, which protects the surface while it settles. This soothing layer shields the fresh tissue and keeps the area comfortable. It is also designed to help the gum heal evenly into a uniform pink shade rather than in patches. The gum usually feels a little tender for a few days, much like a mild graze, and most patients manage comfortably with simple aftercare and soft foods. As the surface heals over the following week or two, the new, lighter colour shows through. The team will explain how to keep the area clean and what to avoid while it heals, so you leave knowing what to expect as your gums settle.
Frequently asked questions about gum depigmentation
Does gum depigmentation hurt?
No, gum depigmentation is not the painful procedure many people imagine. The dark gum is numbed with a local anaesthetic first, so you should feel little to no pain while the laser works, only mild warmth. Afterwards the gum may feel slightly tender for a few days, and most patients manage comfortably with simple aftercare.
How long does the treatment take?
Gum depigmentation is usually completed in a single sitting that takes around thirty minutes to an hour, depending on how much of the gum is being treated. The laser itself works quite quickly. After examining your gums, Dr. Aditi Jain, BDS, MDS will give you a clearer idea of the time for your case.
How long do the results last?
For most patients the lighter colour typically lasts for years with good gum care, though the pigment can slowly return in some people, especially if smoking continues. A gentle touch-up sitting can refresh the colour if needed. The team at Surekha Dental Clinic will talk you through what to expect for your gums.
Is gum depigmentation safe?
Yes. Gum depigmentation is a well-established cosmetic procedure, and here it is carried out by periodontist Dr. Aditi Jain, a gum specialist. The diode laser treats only the thin surface layer of the gum and seals small blood vessels as it works, which keeps bleeding minimal and the procedure controlled and comfortable.
Who is suitable for pink gums treatment?
Gum depigmentation suits anyone bothered by brown or blackish gums showing when they smile. The colour may be natural or linked to past smoking. Healthy gums respond best, so any gum disease is treated first. After a short examination, the periodontist will confirm whether the treatment is right for you.
How much does gum depigmentation cost in Mumbai?
The cost depends on how much of the gum is treated, whether one or both jaws are involved, and whether a touch-up is needed later. There is no single fixed price. Please call Surekha Dental Clinic on +91 98334 88847 or use the booking form, and a written cost is provided after a short examination, with no obligation to proceed.
