Will Black Triangles Go Away?
Black triangles, technically called open gingival embrasures, are the triangular spaces between your teeth and the gum line. Unfortunately, they can draw unwanted attention when you smile. They often form as we age, from aggressive toothbrushing techniques, or from gum disease.
The triangle gaps can serve as food traps, which can result in stains and plaque. The buildup of food particles can lead to gum disease or tooth decay.
Causes of the Black Triangles
There can be several causes of black triangles, but some of the most common causes include:
- Dental hygiene habits- The gum tissue is sensitive, and vigorous brushing will create problems. When you brush your teeth too aggressively, your gums will become damaged, creating the black triangles.
- Gum recession- Gum tissues hug your teeth. Factors such as natural aging, smoking, and gum disease can cause the gums to shrink and pull away from the teeth. As a result, the roots become exposed making them vulnerable to bacteria, plaque, and cavities.
- Bone loss- A loss of bone near a tooth’s base can result in gum disease, osteoporosis, and other problems. When the bone is lost it affects the gum tissue causing recession. This recession forms the black triangles.
How to Fix Black Triangles Between Teeth
There are several options available to reduce the black triangles between teeth. Your dentist will recommend the best treatment for you depending on the cause and severity of the spaces. Here are some standard treatments:
- Gentle, proper dental hygiene- Brushing your teeth daily with proper techniques will help you maintain your overall dental health. Brushing twice a day and flossing once will keep your teeth and gums healthy and normal.
- Composite resin- You may choose to have your dentist fill the gaps with composite resin bonding material. Based on your situation, your dentist will match a tooth-colored resin to fill the triangles between your teeth. This is a nonsurgical process, but it can be time-consuming. It takes time because the resin is applied to the tooth in very thin layers to make it look natural. The added bonding will fill the undesirable gaps.
- Veneers- A ceramic or porcelain veneer is a common treatment to fill in the black triangles. Applying veneers includes slightly modifying your natural tooth’s surface so the veneer and tooth bond. Veneers can last several decades and are used in many dental treatments.
- Braces- Your dentist might recommend that you will be able to fill the gaps by moving teeth collectively with braces. The orthodontic treatment takes some time, but the aesthetic results will be worth it.
- Hyaluronic acid treatment- In some situations, your dentist may suggest regenerating gum tissue with the injection of a hyaluronic acid. There is little discomfort and it delivers quick results, making it a popular solution.
The treatment appropriate for you depends on the condition of your oral health and the severity of your black triangles. Your dentist will exam and recommend the best solutions for your black triangles to restore your healthy smile.