Black Triangles are a common problem with with patients, particularly those who suffer from gum disease. Fortunately, black triangles can fairly easily be remedied with some restorative work and attention on your part.
What causes Black Triangles?
Black Triangles form in the areas between teeth as gums recede down the surface of the tooth. The space where tooth meets gums in adjacent teeth looks like a triangle as the gums slowly retract along the tooth. Typically we relate black triangles to advanced gum disease, infection, or physical trauma.
* Gum Disease- Gum disease develops from genetics, poor hygiene, or a combination of both. Without fastidious care food stuffs will find their way into the grooves and gaps of teeth, enter the gumline, and fester. Over time this will lead to gum disease, which causes the loss of gum tissues and general discomfort within the jaw.
* Infection- Anytime bacteria is accumulating within the mouth you are exposing yourself to bacterial infection opportunities. Food becomes a slurry as you chew it in your mouth, and little bits get left behind after your done eating. This cumulus attaches to fine grooves in the teeth and gums, enters your gumline, and causes infection. Infection leads to receded gums, loss of healthy dental tissue, pain, bleeding, inflammation, and generally poor dental health.
* Trauma- Sometimes patients endure some form of physical trauma, like a trip or fall, which negatively impacts their teeth, jaw, or gums. After any sort of injury you will want to make an appointment with your dentist, and watch for signs of disease or infection. Maintain regular followups after any trauma, and discuss treatment options once you recover.
Many patients may also develop black triangles from less complex issues like
* Overbrushing
* Bad Orthodontic treatments
* The Natural Shape of the tooth
How can you fix Black Triangles?
Several Options will be explored
1. Increased Hygiene- Most Black Triangles can be traced back to gum health. Increasing focus on daily flossing, brushing after meals, mouthwash, and regular cleanings will serve patients well. Make sure to brush gently in soft circles, and be careful not to overbrush or “scrub” the surface of teeth.
2. Braces- Many Patients may explore options like braces, which help to reorient key teeth within the structure of your mouth.
3. Resin or Composite Bonding- Some treatments involve the application of a composite bonding material, which helps to add “tooth” material which is then reshaped and set. The entire process takes about an hour, and the resin is cared for the same way as original teeth, with gentle proper hygiene.
4. Teeth Replacement Options- Some patients may opt to replace certain teeth. There are a variety of options, like porcelain veneers, bridges, or dental implants. Discuss your current dental health with your dentist, and reach out to insurance to investigate coverage options.
What can you do about Black Triangles?
Begin by seeing your dentist. The first step in this journey is receiving a proper cleaning and assessing your current dental hygiene routine. Every journey begins with a small step. Make an appointment today and begin discussing restoration options for Black triangles.