I am a 26 year old male. i am a non-smoker with healthyhabits. i have a black discoloration of some of my gums, especially near the base of teeth. what could it be? whatshould i do?

Usually Normal: Dark areas in the gum are generally normal. This is often found in non-caucasians, and it's referred to as "racial pigmentation." it's completely normal and harmless. It can also be "freckles." the 2nd common cause is discoloration from an old filling material, especially if it's amalgam (mercury). This is also harmless. Sometimes, lasers can remove these discolorations if they bother you.

May be bacteria: Plaque that collects near the gums can have a type of bacteria that uses what you eat to produce a dark sticky protien that makes your gumline look bad. I think you should see your dental hygienist and see if there is a different way you should be brushing. If you've changed your toothpaste recently, maybe that has something to do with it. Try using just baking soda and water for a bit.

See dentist for exam: A number of factors may be responsible. If too long since last professional cleaning, teeth (or tartar on teeth) may accumulate stain, which can readily be removed. Possible that cavities have formed near gum line (a place where patients sometimes do an incomplete job of cleaning). Best to have your dentist check.

A few possibilities: Gum pigmentation is a variable but normal anatomic feature in dark-complexioned individuals. Occasionally, gums may become discolored by adjacent amalgam fillings ("amalgam tattoo"). Less commonly, gum darkening can be a sign of adrenocortical insufficiency or heavy metal poisoning. I am assuming that your darkening is on the gums rather than the teeth, where tooth tartar and stains are suspect.