Will Black Triangles Go Away?
Everyone wants a beautiful smile containing nice, white teeth. A good smile can help improve your confidence and self-esteem. There are numerous cosmetic problems which can impact a patient’s smile. The black triangles located between the tops of the teeth at the gumline are relatively common. These black triangles are not attractive, however, they can actually increase the risk for the patient having gum disease and decay.
Black triangles are also called open gingival embrasures. These spaces which are in the shape of a triangle exist between the top of the teeth at the gum line. The gaps are usually most prominent in the front teeth and can be especially visible when the patient smiles. Gingival embrasures can occur slowly over due to natural aging, from aggressive pressure while brushing, and due from other dental problems.
Large gaps between the teeth can easily trap food, allowing for the accumulation of plaque or debris, and the development of stains. The collection of food and plaque can slowly cause the development of gum disease and tooth decay. While it is rare, severe cases of black triangles can impair the patient’s speech and result in spitting when they speak. Common causes for black triangles in the teeth include the following:
- Bone Loss: Loss of bone at the base of the tooth can cause issues such as osteoporosis, gum disease, and other problems. Bone loss also impacts the gum tissue, which can also recede. One this occurs, the black triangles begin to form.
- Damaged Gum Tissue: Gum tissue binds the teeth together and fills in the gaps between the teeth. Factors such as the patient’s age, smoking habits, and gum disease can cause damage to the gums. These issues can result in shrinkage or the gums pulling away from the tooth. The loss of gum tissues can expose the tooth’s roots, making it susceptible to plaque, bacteria, and cavities.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Gum tissue is extremely sensitive and must be properly cared for. Patients can easily damage the gums when they use a firm toothbrush or brush with too much force. This can slowly result in the formation of black triangles.
Treatment
There are various treatment options available to treat black triangles. The best treatment plan will vary based on the location, severity, and underlying cause. Below is a summary of common treatment options used for minimizing black triangles in the gums.
Braces
Some patients have black triangles because the teeth are misaligned. Orthodontic treatments such as braces can adjust the teeth into the correct location. Once the teeth fit together properly, the black triangles can be reduced or eliminated completed.
Improved Oral Hygiene
Patients should practice good oral hygiene with twice daily brushing and ensure they are also using the proper technique and amount of force. In addition, patients should floss their teeth daily. In the early stages, black triangles can often be improved with good oral hygiene techniques. Simple adjustments can help restore the gums and eliminate the gaps altogether.
Composite Resin and Veneers
In some cases, the dentist may use a composite resin to fill the in the spaces between the teeth. Another common treatment is a porcelain or ceramic veneer, which can improve the overall appearance of the teeth and eliminate black triangles. Veneers are a thin shell which are placed over the natural tooth. They can be used to treat a variety of cosmetic issues. Veneers are extremely durable and can last for up to 20 years when they are properly care for.
The optimal treatment will vary based numerous factors such as the severity, location, and cause of the black triangles. The patient’s oral health will also impact what treatment options can be used. Early intervention and treatment is critical. When an underlying issue such as bone loss or gum disease is present, it will require treatment before the dentist can perform any type of cosmetic treatment.