The teeth are situated close together in a healthy smile, and the spacing between them is minimal. The spaces at the top should fit together with a layer of gum between them. However, in cases where receding gums have happened, a space may appear in these areas. These typically take the form of black triangles, which can impact the overall appearance of your smile. Thankfully, there are approaches that can be taken to help alleviate these gaps. This article will help you understand the underlying causes of these black triangles and what can be done about them.
The Source Of Black Triangles
While rarely talked about, black triangles appear more commonly than you might suspect. In fact, studies have revealed that over 60% of people 20 years or older experience them. These triangles can negatively impact the appearance of your smile and can even be part of the cause behind poor oral health. Genetic factors are a common element in this condition, as is poor oral hygiene. The primary reasons attributed to the formation of black triangles include:
- Old Age: This condition may be present in nearly 70% of people 20 years or older, but it’s increasingly common as we get older. Aging can lead to natural gum recession, with tooth enamel being impaired due to a lack of Vitamin D and calcium absorption.
- Gum Disease: In patients below 65 years of age, black triangles are most commonly the result of gum disease. Gum disease has the ability to destroy enamel and recede the gum line.
- Tooth Root Divergence: A rarer cause causes the roots of the tooth to diverge and break down over time.
- Abnormal Tooth Restoration: In cases where dental restoration is performed poorly or where something unexpected goes awry, black triangles can occur. This can also cause poor oral structure and cosmetic inconsistencies.
Black triangles are primarily brought to dentists because of cosmetic concerns. However, these triangles are attributed to the advance in poor oral health. Plaque and food debris can accumulate in these gaps more easily, leading to accelerated tooth decay. This is why you should always visit your dentist, even if you feel your concern is only cosmetic.
Treatment Approaches For Black Triangles
This is one dental concern that can be challenging to treat. It often requires an interdisciplinary approach, bringing oral surgeons, orthodontists, and cosmetic dentists into the treatment. It takes time to address this condition, but the triangles can be eliminated over time, leaving you with a healthier mouth. The following approaches may be used:
- Tooth reshaping: Alteration of your teeth through recontouring and bonding can help fill the empty spaces.
- Gingival veneers: This type of veneer can effectively cover the spaces that form between your teeth. However, keeping these spaces from reappearing requires flossing and brushing consistently.
- Orthodontic treatment: In cases where the teeth have moved out of alignment, braces may be necessary to correct the teeth. When this is completed, you’ll have an even smile with nicely aligned teeth.
- Surgical treatments: Tissue volumizing, gum recontouring, and regenerative methods can be used to eliminate black triangles for good.
Preventing the appearance of black triangles requires consistent care of your teeth. If you begin to notice their appearance, it’s time to visit your dentist to get help eliminating them.
