Cost to Fix Black Triangles?
Black triangles are medically called gingival embrasures, and they are noticeable gaps at the intersection your teeth and the gumline. Especially in front-facing teeth, the tooth itself narrows as it nears the gumline. When gums recede down the face of the tooth, it exposes a triangular shaped gap. These gaps can be annoying, throwing a wrench in your perfect smile, but they can also lead t further damage quickly. Embrasures are common, and the most important thing to do is take action promptly to slow or halt the process, then look at the cost of repair options.
What Causes Black Triangles?
Black triangles can be exposed when teeth are adjusted. After a course of invisalign or braces, as a tooth finds it desired spot along the jaw, it may expose a small gaps in an adjacent tooth. It could also be the result of a longer history of a dental hygiene gap. As bacteria accumulates on the surface of teeth, degrades organic food remnants, and grows it will eventually find its’ way into your gums. Once it does, it begins destroying gum tissues, which causes them to shrink and detach from the healthy tooth material. This process leads to gaps, tooth loss, and advanced gum disease.
What Can You Do About Black Triangles?
1. Step Up Your Hygiene Routine. Floss after meals, being mindful of every crevice and gap, especially the embrasures. Brush twice a day, softly and in gentle circles. Sometimes over brushing can actually exacerbate the gum recession. Cleaning your mouth will not fix the problem, but it can stop it from getting worse.
2. See Your Dentist. Begin with a routine cleaning and examination. Take time to ask about the health of your teeth, your hygiene routine, and listen for recommendations. Ask about materials to use, like medicated mouthwash or soft bristle toothbrushes.
3. Talk About Options. Your dentist may recommend a periodontal specialist, or they may recommend solutions in house. It will depend on your health history, your hygiene, your history of infections, insurance, and budget.
What Are the Options?
- Adjustment- If your dentist recommends braces or Invisalign you may be looking at a couple thousand dollars, and a time investment. It will depend on how many teeth need to be adjusted, your insurance coverage, and how long treatment is recommended for.
- Tooth Reshaping and Composite Bonding- This is usually the lowest cost option. A composite resin can be applied to your teeth and shaped in house by the steady hand of your dental professional. The procedure is usually painless and takes no longer than your annual checkup. On average a couple hundred dollars, depending on the severity of the gap and how many teeth.
- Replacement- If the underlying tooth structure is damaged or destroyed, you may need to look into replacing it. This can become expensive, but also provides the most comprehensive solution to the problem. You will need to discuss what kind of replacement with your dentist. Bridges, Veneers, Caps, Crowns, and Implants all have a varied difference in pricing and availability.
How Can You Tell What the Best Option Is for Your Budget?
Speak with your dental care professional. Everyone is different, and insurance coverage varies. A broad estimate is not the be all end all decision when it comes to your health. Ask about options, and then determine if there is a way to make it work with your dental care team and your insurance.