Can Black Triangles be Fixed
It is relatively common for patients to have visible black triangles located between their teeth. The following article will review common causes of black triangles, treatment options, and how the triangles are associated with a patient’s oral health. Black triangles are also called gingival embrasures. The spaces occur when gum tissues fail to fill the space between the teeth.
Gum recession is the leading cause of black triangles. Gum recession occurs as the result of smoking, natural aging, and periodontal disease. Unhealthy gums begin to pull away from the teeth and expose the roots to bacteria and cavities. Using too much force or a firm toothbrush when brushing the teeth can cause black triangles as this can damage the gums.
The shape of a patient’s tooth can also impact their gums. Front teeth or incisors which are narrow at the gum line and broad at the biting surface can result in gingival embrasures or triangles. Black triangles can develop following other orthodontic treatments such as braces. This occurs from the movement of the teeth. Patients with severe triangles may require additional treatment.
Another culprit for black triangles is bone loss near the base of the teeth. Bone loss may be caused by gum disease, osteoporosis, or other types of oral health issues.
Below is a summary of how the shape of the tooth can impact the likelihood of experiencing black triangles between the teeth:
* Rectangular Teeth: Teeth which are rectangular have straight, symmetrical edges. As a result, they fit together without the presence of any gaps. This prevents gingival embrasures.
* Oval Teeth: While teeth which are oval have space at the bottom from their round edges, the top of the teeth fit together perfectly and black triangles are not likely to appear.
* Triangular Teeth: Because triangular teeth contain a wider edge of at the bottom of the tooth and more narrow edge at the top, it creates space for black triangles.
In many cases, black triangles between the teeth suggest the presence of an underlying oral health problem. Patients with newly developed gaps between the teeth should follow up with their dentist to determine the cause. The dentist can help determine if there is bone loss, gum disease, or another type of health concern. In order to eliminate the black triangles, any underlying dental issue must be treated.
The dentist will first identify the cause of the gingival embrasures before creating the treatment plan. Below are common treatment options for black triangles.
Braces
Patients which have black triangles due to braces or orthodontic treatments may require additional treatment to resolve the issue. While the black triangles may be aesthetic, they can create issues when left untreated.
Oral Hygiene
Patients who use too much force while brushing and flossing can experience black triangles. When the gaps are minimal or have just begun, and patient has otherwise healthy gums, they can reverse the damage through the practice of gentle oral hygiene.
Technique
In addition to using gentle pressure when brushing and flossing, it is also important for patients to use the correct technique. This includes slowly sliding floss against the teeth and using circular motions when brushing. Patients should also be sure to use a soft bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the gums.
Veneers or Dental Resin
In cases where the shape of the patient’s tooth is the culprit for the triangles, the dentist can fill the gaps with a dental resin or veneers. Veneers are an excellent solution when the tooth has additional damage beyond the shape. Dental resin is affordable and can effectively fill the gaps between the teeth.
Hyaluronic Acid Treatment
In cases of gingival embrasures caused by receding gums, the dentist may suggest the use of a hyaluronic acid treatment. During this treatment, the dentist will inject hyaluronic acid into the gums to stimulate regeneration.