Black Triangles Between Teeth: Close the dark spaces between your teeth, starting with the cause
Black triangles are common, and there is more than one way to treat them.
- Bioclear Certified, Master Track
- Gums checked first
- Options explained
Quick answer
What are black triangles, and how are they treated?
Black triangles are small dark spaces between teeth near the gums. They can appear when gums recede, when teeth are triangular in shape, or after teeth are moved. Treatment depends on the cause: healthy gums first, then options such as Bioclear composite, aligners or porcelain. Dr. Rafael Bustamante, a general dentist, holds Bioclear Black Triangle certification.
Common causes
Why black triangles appear
- Gums that have receded, or bone lost to gum disease
- Teeth that are narrow near the gums
- Teeth that were moved with braces or aligners
Before and after
A black triangle case, completed by Dr. Bustamante
Before 
After Black triangles closed
Individual results vary.
Options
Three ways to close the space
| Bioclear composite | Porcelain veneers or crowns | Aligners first | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it works | Composite is added to the sides of the teeth to fill the space | Porcelain is shaped to cover the teeth and the space | Teeth are moved closer, sometimes followed by composite |
| Tooth reduction | Little or none in many cases, decided case by case | Usually some enamel is removed | None for the aligners themselves |
| Later changes | Composite can be repaired or added to | A damaged veneer or crown is usually replaced | Retainers help keep teeth in place |
| Things to know | Composite can wear, stain or chip | Porcelain can chip or crack | Results vary, and aligners do not suit every case |
Healthy gums come first. For advanced gum problems we may refer you to a periodontist, a recognized dental specialty. Dr. Rafael Bustamante is a general dentist. Bioclear certification is a certificate of achievement, not a specialty.
How it works
How we plan black triangle treatment
- Step 1
Check the gums
Gum and bone health first, with x-rays when needed.
- Step 2
Find the cause
Recession, tooth shape or tooth position.
- Step 3
Talk it through
Options, limits and an estimate before you decide.
- Step 4
Treat and maintain
Then regular cleanings and checkups.
FAQ
Quick answers
What causes black triangles between teeth?
The most common causes are gums that have receded, bone loss from gum disease, teeth that are narrow near the gums, and tooth movement after braces or aligners. Often it is a mix.
Do black triangles mean I have gum disease?
Not always. Tooth shape alone can leave a space. We check your gums and bone first, because any gum problem needs care before the space is closed.
Will my gums grow back and fill the space?
Gum tissue that has receded does not usually grow back by itself. Treatment either fills the space at the tooth or addresses the gums, depending on the cause.
Can black triangles be closed without veneers?
Often, yes. Bioclear states its method is used for black triangle closures, by adding composite to the sides of the teeth. Whether it suits you depends on your teeth and gums.
Can black triangles appear after Invisalign or braces?
Yes. Moving teeth can sometimes leave small triangular spaces near the gums. We talk about this when treatment is planned, and about options afterward.
How long does a black triangle repair last?
We cannot promise a time. Composite can wear, stain or chip, and your bite, grinding, diet and home care all play a part. Regular checkups help.
Who treats black triangles at Signature Dental?
Dr. Rafael Bustamante, a general dentist. He is Bioclear Certified, Master Track, including Black Triangle certification, and teaches at the Bioclear Learning Center. Bioclear certification is a certificate of achievement, not a specialty.
Is a gap between my front teeth the same as a black triangle?
No. A gap runs the full height of the teeth, while a black triangle is a small dark space near the gums. See our page on gaps between front teeth.
See what can be done for your smile
We check your gums, explain every option and give you an estimate before you decide.