Can Black Triangles be Fixed?
It is not uncommon for there to be visible black triangles between a patient’s teeth. Patients often want to know what causes these black triangles, their options for treatment, and how their oral health is affected. Another term used for black triangles is gingival embrasures. These spaces exist when the gum tissue does not adequately fill the area between the teeth.
The most common cause of black triangles is gum recession. This often occurs from periodontal disease, smoking habits, and aging. Gums which are not healthy and strong begin to pull away from the teeth. This can expose the roots to harmful bacteria and cavities. When a patient uses a firm toothbrush or too much force while brushing, it can cause damage to the gums and result in black triangles.
The patient’s tooth shape can also have significant impact on their gums and determine the likelihood of black triangles developing. When the front teeth or incisors are narrow at the gum line and broader at the biting surface, it can cause triangles. The triangles can also develop due to the shifting of teeth from orthodontic treatments like braces. In cases of large black triangles, additional treatment may be necessary.
Bone loss near the base of the tooth can be another cause of black triangles. Issues such as gum disease, osteoporosis, and other oral health problems can result in this type of bone loss.
As suggested previously, the tooth’s shape can impact if a patient is prone to black triangles. Rectangular teeth have straight, symmetrical edges and fit together without any significant gaps. In this case, gingival embrasures are not present. Oval teeth have space at the bottom due to the rounded edges. The tops of the teeth fit together, making the black triangles unlikely. Triangular teeth contain a wider edge at the biting surface and a narrower edge at the top, resulting in black triangles.
Black triangles can suggest the presence of an underlying oral health issue that requires treatment. When a patient has newly developed gaps between their teeth, they should reach out to their dentist for an examination to determine the cause. Prior to treating the cosmetic component of black triangles, the underlying issue must first be treated. The following are commonly used to minimize the appearance of black triangles.
Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, the patients will have black triangles following the completion of an orthodontic treatment such as braces. They may require additional treatment. Black triangles may seem to be a cosmetic issue, however, they can cause oral health issues.
Oral Hygiene
When a patient uses extreme force with flossing and brushing, it can damage the gums and cause black triangles. Gaps which are minor and patients with healthy gums can often reverse the damage with using gentle pressure with their oral hygiene.
Hygiene
Patients should also use the correct technique with brushing and flossing to avoid damage. The correct technique for flossing involves slowly sliding the floss against the teeth to remove food and debris. A circular motion should be used when brushing and the patient should use a soft bristled toothbrush.
Dental Resin and Veneers
When the shape of the tooth is causing the black triangles, a dental resin or veneers can be used to eliminate the gap. Dental resin is an effective solution for filling the gaps between the teeth and is quite affordable. When the tooth has cosmetic issues in addition to the triangles, veneers are an excellent solution. While they are more expensive, veneers can last for many years.