What Causes Black Triangles?
Small gaps can form at the base of the teeth near the gums, creating visible black triangles. These black triangles may also be called open gingival embrasures. They are often present between the front teeth as the result of damaged or inadequate gum tissue. The teeth generally taper in near the root, resulting in gaps which are in the shape of a triangle. Receding gums are often the culprit for gaps between the teeth. The gums naturally start to recede over time as a patient ages. Other issues such as gum disease, infection, or using too much force when brushing can make the issue more pronounced.
While the black triangles can be a cosmetic concern, they can also result in oral issues. The gaps can easily accumulate food and plaque, making the patient more likely to encounter decay and gum disease. The dentist may suggest patients use a gentle force and proper technique when brushing and flossing. When the gums are otherwise healthy, this can improve the appearance of the gaps and help restore the gums. When the gingival embrasures are minor, the simple act of practicing good oral hygiene may resolve the issue without any other form of treatment being required.
Black triangles can be challenging to avoid. Some patients are more prone to the issue due to the shape of their teeth. Other patients may have unhealthy gums which are easily damaged. Good oral hygiene combined with using proper brushing and flossing techniques can aid in minimizing receding gums. Brushing and flossing can help prevent tooth infections and gum disease, which often cause black triangles. A good oral hygiene regimen includes twice daily brushing and flossing each day. It is also important for patients to make frequent visits to the dentist. During these routine visits, the dentist will complete a thorough examination, the teeth will be professionally cleaned, and any issues can be addressed promptly.
Black triangles which are not treated often become larger and more obvious. Common treatments used to reduce or eliminate black triangles include the following:
1. Improved oral hygiene can often help resolve mild gum recession and small black triangles
2. In cases of advanced gum disease, the dentist or periodontist will need to complete a thorough cleaning
3. Black triangles which are caused by the shape of the tooth can often be reduced through the use of tooth-colored resin to build up the tooth
4. Dental veneers are an effective solution for concealing gaps between the tooth and other cosmetic issues
5. Some patients can benefit from gum rejuvenation through the pinhole technique or other types of treatments for the gums
6. Interproximal reduction (IPR) can be combined with orthodontic treatments to reshape and reposition the teeth, reducing the size and appearance of black triangles
Black triangles may appear after a patient undergoes braces or an orthodontic treatment. Teeth which were previously crowded or overlapped are especially prone to the gaps. Prior to treatment, the dentist may be aware that the patient is at risk for black triangles and can include IPR in the overall treatment plan.
IPR is typically successful in reducing the triangles, however, if the black triangles are severe, the dentist can discuss other treatments options in order to achieve the desired result.