When you look closely at your front teeth in the mirror, do you notice small gaps that look like black triangles? These appear due to spaces between your teeth where your gum tissue doesn’t completely fill the area. The triangular gaps can make you feel self-conscious about smiling and laughing because they make your smile seem incomplete. Luckily, your cosmetic dentist in Goodlettsville offers a few treatment solutions to restore your oral health and close these gaps.
What Causes Black Triangles Between Teeth?
According to a review published in the British Journal of Applied Science & Technology, multiple studies have found that black triangles can occur in up to 67 percent of people older than 20, meaning it’s an incredibly common condition. They can be the result of several causes, including one as simple as a person’s oral structure. Some additional reasons that these occur include:
- Aging
- Gum disease causing receding gums
- Separating tooth roots after orthodontic treatment
- Gaps between teeth
- Abnormal tooth shape and structure
Gum disease, a primary cause of this issue, is a common condition that can wreak havoc on your mouth by causing permanent damage. Here are some factors that can increase your risk of developing this condition:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Genetic makeup
- Crooked and crowded teeth
- Tobacco use
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Certain medications
Oral Health Risks Caused By Black Triangles
There are countless oral health risks associated with black triangles, even though many people consider them to be strictly cosmetic issues. These spaces between your teeth can build up with plaque, tartar, and harmful oral bacteria that cause cavities and other several oral problems. Without thorough checkups and routine professional cleanings, they can eventually lead to the formation of gum disease and even tooth infections. That’s why it’s important to let your dentist know if they have recently appeared.
Cosmetic Treatment Options
When you speak with your dentist in Goodlettsville about the small spaces between your teeth, they’ll discuss different treatment options to close these gaps and improve your oral health. Some of these suggestions may include:
- Porcelain Veneers: Strong, thin porcelain shells that are custom crafted to fit over the visible surface of your teeth to close gaps between them.
- Direct Bonding: Composite resin that’s custom-selected to match the color of your natural enamel and sculpted and cured to close gaps between teeth.
While some causes for black triangles can be completely out of your control, the best way to keep them from forming is to remain diligent about brushing and flossing every day. Visiting your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings can also help prevent the issue from occurring. Although there’s no guarantee that they will never form, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing your dentist will be able to provide you with early intervention if they do appear.
About the Author
Dr. Deidra Harrison-McClain started her career as a dental assistant before graduating at the top of her class with her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College in Nashville. She is passionate about providing her patients with high-quality dental care that optimizes their oral health and makes her patients’ proud to show off their smiles. She offers a variety of cosmetic services, including porcelain veneers and direct bonding, to help boost her patients’ confidence. For questions or to schedule a consultation, visit Goodlettsville Smiles’ website or call 615-859-0188.