Is Getting Rid of Black Triangles Between My Teeth Worth It?

Posted by AllSmiles

I have noticeable black triangles between my lower teeth. I have mixed feelings about doing anything about them because I’m unsure what the upkeep will involve. I’m getting self-conscious about the black triangles, but I don’t know if I should be. If I get dental bonding, how long will it last? I have dental anxiety, so I prefer not to get anything that has me at the dental office frequently. Thanks. Karter

Karter

Black triangles, or dark spaces between your teeth, can detract from your smile and be unhealthy. We will explain the causes, treatment, and how long the results last.

What Causes of Black Triangles Between Teeth?

The causes of black triangles include tooth position and shape and gum recession.

Tooth Position

Misaligned teeth can cause unwanted spaces, including black triangles. Sometimes, dark areas are left after orthodontic treatment.

Shape of Teeth

Triangular-shaped teeth near the chewing surfaces can leave gaps between them. Black triangles are often in gum tissue that has a thin biotype.

Gum Recession

Gum recession can cause black triangles between your teeth. Gums can recede for a variety of reasons:

Aggressive brushing or flossing – Aggressive dental hygiene can weaken and damage gum tissue and cause it to recede.
Orthodontic treatment – Pressure applied to teeth and bone during orthodontic treatment can result in some bone loss. Gum tissue follows the bone and can result in recession.
Periodontal disease – Bone loss associated with gum disease causes recession
After scaling and root planing – Scaling and root planing help gums recover from gum disease. Although bone loss has already occurred, after inflamed gums return to their normal state and seal against the bone again, gum recession and dark spaces between teeth are more noticeable.
Tobacco use – Smokers have more calculus (hardened plaque) between their teeth, which causes gums to separate from teeth. It also leads to gum disease.
Bruxism (teeth grinding) – Teeth grinding loosens gum tissue around teeth, and deep pockets develop where bacteria has entered between the teeth and gums.
Genetics, including a thin biotype – Gum tissue that is genetically thin and scalloped is more likely to recede from the teeth and leave dark spaces between them.
Hormonal changes – Fluctuating hormone levels can cause gum irritation and recession.
Trauma to gum tissue –Accidental injury and excessive gum picking with toothpicks or fingernails can cause damage.

Reasons to Correct Black Triangles Between Teeth

Reasons to correct black triangles between teeth relate to your oral health and include the following:

Food and debris get trapped – The increased space between your teeth makes it easier for food and debris to get trapped between them.
Bacteria buildup – The spaces allow bacteria to build up and inflame your gums.
Gum disease – Prolonged inflammation can lead to bone loss and gum disease.

How Can You Prevent and Treat Black Triangles

Regular flossing, brushing, and professional dental cleaning can help prevent black triangles related to gum disease. Direct dental bonding can eliminate black triangles between your teeth. It can last five years or longer before you need to replace it. Sometimes, a dentist may recommend porcelain veneers lasting eight to fifteen years. Neither treatment should require frequent visits or increase your dental anxiety. Consult a cosmetic dentist to determine the healthiest approach for your gums and teeth.

Chandler, Arizona, dentists Dr. William Walden and Dr. Tyrel Beavers sponsor this post.