Can Black Triangles Be Fixed?

Black triangles, also known as “open gingival embrasures,” are small gaps or spaces between two teeth and your gum line. Black triangles can be naturally occurring, but they can also worsen over time. Black triangles are fairly common and, if treated properly, can be fixed.

 

What Causes Black Triangles?

 

There are many factors that can cause black triangles, such as the natural shape, size, and position of the tooth. Everyone’s teeth are shaped differently. There are rectangular teeth, oval teeth, or more triangular teeth. Triangular teeth in particular have a wider edge, which creates space for black triangles to appear, and the more triangular the tooth’s shape, the more pronounced the black triangle will be.

 

Another fairly common cause of black triangles is gum recession. When gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, in other words, recedes, it will expose more of the tooth’s root, which creates a gap between the two teeth, causing a black triangle. Overly aggressive brushing and improper oral care can also lead to the development of black triangles. Brushing aggressively can wear away the tissue between your teeth, leading to gum recession.

 

Treatment Options

 

Black triangles are not life-threatening, and they can be treated. There are a few options to consider depending on the severity of the case, your doctor’s recommendations, as well as your preference and price range.

 

Dental Bonding: This option is one of the least invasive options to close a black triangle and is most commonly used in cases where the gap is very small. Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure where a composite made of resin is color-matched to your surrounding teeth and then applied to the natural tooth and cured with a light. In some cases, the dentist might need to lightly roughen your original tooth to help the composite resin stick. This procedure only affects the outer layer of your tooth; therefore, it does not hurt.

 

Crowns or Veneers: In a more advanced case of a black triangle, a crown or veneer may be recommended by your dentist. A veneer is made of porcelain or composite and is bonded to the front of your natural tooth to improve its appearance and close the gap. Veneers are very strong and can last between 10 and 20 years if properly taken care of. Crowns are very similar to veneers, the only major difference being that it caps the entirety of the tooth. Crowns can be more functional, whereas veneers are primarily used for cosmetic purposes.

 

Braces: Your dentist may recommend braces or aligners to shift your teeth into the ideal placement, which will close the gap. Not only do braces or aligners help to close a black triangle, but they can also be used to correct misaligned teeth or a bad bite.

 

Overall, there are many factors that cause black triangles, but there are also many ways to fix them. Contact the office to schedule an appointment with the dentist. They will work with you to put together an action plan that will close your black triangle.

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