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What Causes One's Gums To Look Pale In A Person Who Has Smoked For Many Years?
Question: Hi,
My dentist said my gums looked pale. Looking that up it seemed like anemia was a possibility. I had a CBC done and the only flag was Platelets at 392. I see another answer on here that it shouldn't be a concern. But I'd add that I'm 64 years old, male and smoked for many years. I recently quit but am concerned I waited too long. My body is having all sorts of reactions to the withdrawal so my plan was to get a thorough checkup in a few months.
My dentist said my gums looked pale. Looking that up it seemed like anemia was a possibility. I had a CBC done and the only flag was Platelets at 392. I see another answer on here that it shouldn't be a concern. But I'd add that I'm 64 years old, male and smoked for many years. I recently quit but am concerned I waited too long. My body is having all sorts of reactions to the withdrawal so my plan was to get a thorough checkup in a few months.
Brief Answer:
Platelets at 392 is not a matter of concern,explained below.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Anemia is the most common cause of pale gums, but as I see through your query you already rule out this cause through the complete blood count examination.
Platelets at 392 is a little lower than normal range but the difference is minimal,so there is nothing to be worried about.
Pale gum can also be related to gum disease.
A physical examination is needed to confirm this diagnosis and get proper treatment.
Meanwhile some advices that I can give you are:
-practice good oral hygiene
-look for natural toothpastes with peppermint oil
-get regular check ups at your dentist
Hope my answer was helpful.
If you have further queries feel free to contact me again.
Kind regards!
Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi
General &Family Physician
Platelets at 392 is not a matter of concern,explained below.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Anemia is the most common cause of pale gums, but as I see through your query you already rule out this cause through the complete blood count examination.
Platelets at 392 is a little lower than normal range but the difference is minimal,so there is nothing to be worried about.
Pale gum can also be related to gum disease.
A physical examination is needed to confirm this diagnosis and get proper treatment.
Meanwhile some advices that I can give you are:
-practice good oral hygiene
-look for natural toothpastes with peppermint oil
-get regular check ups at your dentist
Hope my answer was helpful.
If you have further queries feel free to contact me again.
Kind regards!
Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi
General &Family Physician
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
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