Understanding Black Triangles After Orthodontic Treatment: Causes and Remedies

Black triangles are the small, triangular spaces that can form between your teeth, especially near the gum line. Though these gaps might seem like a minor aesthetic issue, they can impact both the appearance and the health of your smile. For many adults who have recently undergone orthodontic treatment, black triangles can appear after the braces come off, and they can sometimes be difficult to manage. But why do these gaps form, and how can they be fixed?

What Are Black Triangles?

A black triangle is a void between the teeth, typically at the point where the tooth meets the gum. It looks like a dark, triangular space, and while it may be noticeable when you smile, it’s often not painful or harmful in and of itself. However, the spaces can collect food and plaque, which may increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. In addition, they can affect the overall appearance of your teeth, making your smile look uneven.

Why Do Black Triangles Happen After Orthodontic Treatment?

There are several reasons why black triangles are common after orthodontic treatment, especially in adults. Some of the most significant factors include:

1. Gum Recession: Gum Recession is a very common occurrence that happens naturally due to time in nearly all mouths. When teeth are crowded (overlapping each other) or significantly rotated, interestingly they hide the fact that gums have receded in particular areas. When the teeth are straightened black triangles appear in the areas where the gum had receded and is no longer “camouflaged” by crowding.
2. Tooth Shape and Position: Teeth are naturally not perfect rectangles, in fact they are naturally wider at the incisal edge than they are at the gum line. This natural tapered shape means that teeth come in contact sometimes at a very small point. This point contact is responsible for the black triangle being more apparent.
3. Loss of Supporting Bone: In patients who have had bone loss, or periodontitis, the gum tissue follows the underlaying bone, which has reduced. This loss of bone makes black triangles more visible. It is very important to schedule cleanings every 3 months if you have experienced periodontitis in order to slow down future gum and bone loss.

Remedies for Black Triangles

While black triangles may feel frustrating, there are several ways to address them, most of which are painless and easy to do! 😊

1. IPR: Interproximal reduction, or IPR, is a very conservative, quick, and easy procedure that can be done by your orthodontist at your adjustment visits. Using a very thin strip, or a very narrow bur, the in-betweens (interproximal) areas are slightly reduced or polished down in order to broaden the teeth’s point contact into a longer contact. This allows orthodontists to push teeth closer together and reduce the appearance of black triangles.

2. Dental Bonding: A popular and non-invasive solution, dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin/composite to fill in the gaps between the teeth. The bonding material can be sculpted to match the natural contours of your teeth, making it a cosmetic fix that enhances the appearance of your smile.
3. Veneers: For a more long-lasting solution, dental veneers can be placed over the teeth to cover gaps and improve tooth shape. Veneers are thin shells made from porcelain or composite materials that bond directly to the teeth, providing a seamless, attractive look.
4. Bone/Gum Grafting: In cases where gum and bone recession is the primary cause, a gum or bone graft may be recommended. This procedure involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth and grafting it onto the areas of recession. It can help restore the natural gum line and reduce the appearance of black triangles. Our local periodontist specialist can help with this procedure should you need it during or after your treatment.
5. Improved Oral Hygiene: Regular and thorough home care can reduce the likelihood of black triangles occurring in the first place. When the gum line is cleaned very well, plaque and calculus which are the culprits causing gum and bone decay, are eliminated therefore the risk of developing black triangles is reduced.

Conclusion

Black triangles are a relatively common occurrence after orthodontic treatment, particularly for adults. Though they can affect the appearance of your smile, there are several effective remedies available. Whether through dental bonding, veneers, or gum grafts, there are options to restore both the function and aesthetics of your teeth. Consult with your Orthodontist to discuss the best solution for your unique situation. With the right care and treatment, you can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile well after your orthodontic treatment is complete! 😊