What Causes Black Triangles
It is possible for small gaps to form between the teeth and gumline creating the appearance of black triangles. Black triangles are also called open gingival embrasures and they are typically found in the front teeth due to insufficient gum tissue. For most patients, their teeth taper in near the root. This results in gaps that are often triangular in shaped. Gum recession is often the cause for these gaps. Over time, the gums begin to recede. Gum disease, infection, or aggressive brushing can worsen the problem.
Patients often dislike the appearance of the black triangles, however, they can also create oral issues such as trapping plaque or food and increasing the patient’s risk of gum disease and decay. In some cases, the dentist may suggest that the patient be gentle when brushing and flossing. In the early stages of minimal gingival embrasures, improved oral hygiene can help resolve the issue without the need for additional treatment.
It is quite difficult to prevent black triangles. In some cases, the patient may be more prone to the issue based on the shape of their teeth or health of their gums. Gum recession can be minimized by practicing good oral hygiene and using proper brushing and flossing techniques. This can help prevent gums disease and tooth infections, which can be the culprit for black triangles. Good oral hygiene includes gently brushing the teeth at least twice each day and daily flossing. Patients should also make regular visits to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. The dentist can help detect and prevent serious issues.
When black triangles remain untreated, they will typically become more prominent with time. Below are common methods used for treating black triangles:
* In cases of small black triangles or mild gum recession, patients often see improvement from improved oral hygiene
* Patients with more advanced forms of gum disease often require treatment from a dentist or a periodontist
* When the black triangles are due to the shape of the patient’s tooth, the dentist can build up tooth and reduce the gaps with a tooth-colored resin
* Dental veneers can also be used to conceal gaps which are caused by the shape of the tooth
* In some cases, the patient may benefit from gum rejuvenation using the pinhole technique which can help reverse receding gums
* Interproximal reduction (IPR) and orthodontic treatment can also be used to reshape the teeth and minimise the appearance of black triangles
In some cases, black triangles appear following the completion of orthodontic treatment. This is espcially common with teeth which were crowded or overlapped. The dentist may know that black triangles are likely prior to beginning the orthodontic treatment. In this case, the dentist can include IPR in the treatment plan to reduce the appearance of the gaps.
IPR is highly successful and often resolves the issue, achieving the desired results. Patients with more severe black triangles should contact their dentist to determine the cause. The cause of the issue will determine the ideal treatment option for reducing or eliminating the gaps between the teeth.