Bothered by Black Triangles Within Your Smile?
In terms of your smile aesthetics, “black triangles” refer to the empty triangular spaces that develop between the upper or lower teeth at the gum line. While these unsightly gaps may seem like your teeth have changed, it is most often a result of changes within the gum tissues. Black triangles typically develop due to gingival recession or the resorption of gum tissues between your teeth. Not only can black triangles be a cosmetic concern, but they can also be tight spaces that can easily trap food debris. The good news is that black triangles are correctable, and a skilled dentist can determine the best course of action.
An Important Question to Answer
Since black triangles can be caused by gum recession or gum loss, it is critical that you rule out gum disease as the culprit. Active gum disease is an infection that can gradually irritate and destroy the gum tissues as well as the underlying bone. If your black triangles have formed as a result of gum disease, it is imperative that you receive proper treatment to stop the infection and prevent worsening black triangles.
Once gum disease is reversed or stable, black triangles can be fixed using simple cosmetic dental bonding. An experienced cosmetic dentist will use tooth-colored composite resin to build out the adjacent teeth and close the black triangle gap.
Other Causes of Black Triangles
In some cases, black triangles are a result of an anatomical defect, or when your labial frenum (ligament that connects your upper lip to you gums) is attached. This can prevent a normal gum line and create unwanted dark spaces between the teeth. In this situation, patients may need gum grafting, gum contouring or a minor gum surgery to reposition the frenum attachment.
If black triangles are causing you to lose confidence in your smile or worry about the presence of gum disease, let our team help you at Laguna West Dental. We are confident we can restore your teeth and gums to ideal health and beauty at any stage of life!