Will Black Triangles Go Away?
In most cases, black triangles did not just appear overnight. They are often a natural result of tooth displacement or advanced gum disease. Since nothing you did necessarily caused them, you might wonder if they will just “go away” on their own–not likely.
Black triangles are triangular shaped gaps near the root of your teeth, near the intersection of the gumline and an adjacent tooth. They are usually the byproduct of a periodontal intervention, like braces, or a prolonged experience with gum disease or infection. “Fixing” them is usually an involved process, that requires a professional with years of experience. It is unlikely that simply adjusting your dental hygiene is going to cause your gums to grow or your teeth to fix themselves, however proper hygiene is part and parcel of all dental care.
The Problem with Black Triangles
Black Triangles leave unsightly gaps along your beautiful smile, which is annoying. You work hard to care for your teeth, and you deserve to smile as much as you like. With black triangles you may feel self conscious, which makes you less likely to smile, and more likely to feel self conscious or depressed. The gaps also leave your gums and teeth vulnerable to accumulations of food, plaque, and bacteria. Once this bacteria finds its way into your gumline, it grows and creates further separation from the teeth. This leads to gum recession, larger gaps, tooth loss, and creates a self fulfilling cycle.
How to Make Black Triangles Go Away
Fixing your hygiene routine is not likely to reverse the process, but this must be the first step. To protect against black triangles and the advancement of disease, patients must be practicing fastidious personal hygiene. Flossing is the only way to physically remove the accumulation of organic material from between the teeth. You also need to brush after meals, and carefully remove plaque from the surface of your teeth. If you have black triangles, be careful to address these gaps and ensure there is no areas which you neglect.
Then, see a dental professional. Begin with a routine cleaning, and be sure to leave with a scheduled follow up cleaning in a couple months. Have a thorough examination, x rays, and a conversation about options to repair the triangular shaped gaps.
Dental Interventions
- Braces/Invisalign- Teeth can be adjusted to fill in gaps or adjust along the jawline.
- Composite Shaping- Tooth shape can be adjusted and filled using composite resins.
- Gum Care- Certain tissues can be adjusted or stimulated to target the affected area.
- Teeth Replacement Options- Veneers, Implants, Bridges, and caps may be options, depending on the underlying damage to the support structures.
Begin the Process
See your dental professional today and begin the process. You know enough now to ask about what hygiene routine changes you need to make, what the process of repair looks like, and what recommendations your care team may suggest. Be sure to contact your insurance company also, to get a send of what coverage looks like for recommended treatment options.