What are black triangles?

Black triangles, also known as open gingival embrasures, are small triangular gaps that form between the teeth near the gum line. They appear when the gums have receded or when there is insufficient gum tissue to fill the space.

These gaps can do more than just affect the appearance of your smile; they can also impact your oral health. Food particles and plaque can easily become trapped in these spaces, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Common causes of black triangles

Understanding the root causes of black triangles is essential for effective treatment. Here are some common factors that contribute to their formation:

Gum recession

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding your teeth pulls back, exposing more of the tooth or its root. This can result from aggressive brushing, periodontal disease or even genetics. As gums recede, black triangles become more prominent.

Tooth shape and size

The natural shape and size of your teeth can also contribute to the formation of black triangles. Teeth that are more triangular in shape tend to have wider spaces at the gum line compared to those that are more rectangular.

Bone loss

Bone loss around the teeth can lead to a decrease in gum tissue support, resulting in black triangles. Conditions such as periodontitis often cause bone loss, increasing the likelihood of these gaps forming.

Orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatments aimed at straightening teeth can sometimes result in black triangles if not carefully managed. The movement of teeth may create new spaces where there were none before.

Treating black triangles with IPR

Orthodontic treatment combined with IPR (interproximal reduction) can be an effective solution for black triangles. IPR involves your orthodontist reshaping the sides of your teeth by removing tiny amounts of enamel using special tools. This process helps create space for better alignment and reduces crowding without requiring extractions.

By reshaping the contact points between adjacent teeth, IPR helps them fit together more snugly, minimising gaps near the gum line where black triangles tend to form. IPR is quick, painless and very safe since only small amounts of enamel are removed. The results are long-lasting, provided you wear your retainers to maintain the new positions of your teeth.

Most patients are suitable for IPR. However, if you have very thin enamel or significant black triangles that would require more IPR than recommended, alternative treatment options can be discussed.

Treating black triangles with composite bonding

If IPR isn’t the right option for you, composite bonding offers another solution for addressing black triangles. This technique involves applying a tooth-coloured resin material to fill in gaps and reshape affected areas. Composite bonding provides immediate results, but it will need to be replaced periodically as it doesn’t last indefinitely.

Speak to the experts

If you’re concerned about black triangles affecting your smile’s appearance or oral health, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Contact our friendly team today to schedule a no-obligation consultation with a specialist orthodontist in Hove.