Recently, we’ve been treating a lot of black triangles between teeth, or “open gingival embrasures.” Black triangles are the result of gum tissue not completely filling the space between your teeth. This can be normal, or it can be the result of gum recession or bone loss. However, up until now there hasn’t been a great treatment option for black triangles.
Traditional black triangle treatment
In our practice, historically we would recommend leaving black triangles because we didn’t have an ideal solution for this issue. The following are the ways we would typically treat them.
- Dental bonding to add volume to the teeth and close gaps.
- Porcelain veneers or DURAthin veneers to improve the aesthetic of the smile.
- Gum recession treatment to add gum tissue to the area.
- Braces or adult orthodontics to push the teeth together.
While each of these options may help, none of them provide a solution that will correct black triangles 100% of the time. For instance, gum recession treatment may require two or three surgeries and only improve the look of black triangles by 25%. Orthodontic treatment can also create new black triangles when you straighten crooked teeth.
Most general dentists would recommend dental bonding to treat black triangles. Yet, dental bonding has several obstacles to success. These include:
- Placing the composite so it flows under the gumline.
- Preparing the area so the bonding attaches properly.
- Protecting the area from saliva during the procedure.
Bioclear black triangle treatment
Bioclear has emerged as the gold standard for black triangle treatment because it overcomes all the obstacles that dental bonding presents. This revolutionary new treatment uses 3M™ FilTek™ frames and injection molding to create strong restorations in traditionally hard to treat areas. It is perfect for patients with black triangles, diastema, and enamel loss.
The frames, or matrixes, allows the dentist to see what the tooth will look like when it’s filled with composite. This ensures that the composite is going to the right places (under the gumline and up through the contact area) before it is placed. The result is a seamless interface of composite and enamel, compared to bonding which typically creates a ledge where the composite meets the tooth.
In terms of preparing the area, the Bioclear protocol “sandblasts” the area. This, paired with the rubber dams to protect the area from saliva, creates a contaminate-free environment that cannot be achieved with bonding. This ensures that the composite adheres correctly and increases the success of the restoration.
Other benefits of Bioclear black triangle treatment include the naturally looking hybrid composite, enhanced aesthetics, minimal discomfort, and quick results. Overall, I’m very satisfied with this treatment option for black triangles between teeth – I only wish the technology existed sooner!
Before/After Photos of Fixing Black Triangles with Bioclear
See Dr. Saylor for a Free Consultation
Interested in treating black triangles between your teeth? Schedule an appointment with our dentist office in Brandon, FL. We’ll be happy to discuss our Bioclear black triangle treatment and improve the aesthetic of your smile!
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