I went to the dentist today for a routine cleaning and when the dentist came in he told the hygienist to record that I had  mottling on the upper gums in the front.  The only thing I can find about mottling involves the teeth but I am sure he said the gums.  Is this something that is bad?  If so what causes it?

Answer:

Well your research proved right in that the term “mottling”, when used in dentistry, does indeed apply to the teeth.  Mottling is used to describe the physical appearance of enamel after exposure to excess fluoride (typically in the drinking water).  The exposure usually occurs during childhood/development years and is reflected on the teeth later on.  The spots can range anywhere from paper-white patches to brown patchy discoloration.  Mottling is harmless and most individuals are only dissatisfied with the esthetic appearance.  However, if severe, other effects of excess systemic fluoride will appear such as sclerosis of the skeleton (very rare).  So if you have a white patch or brown patch on your tooth, maybe this is what your dentist was referring to.

The only term that sounds somewhat similar to mottling, which could have been used in reference to your gums, could have been stippling.  Stippling refers to a rippled appearance of the gums and is an indication of good health.

Hope this information helps you with your inquiry.  Good luck!