Healthy gum tissue appears plump, vital, and pink, hugging the teeth in an even, snug line and filling in any spaces along the gum line. There are a few different factors that can compromise the health and vitality of the gums, including normal aging, improper brushing or flossing, or gum disease, to name a few. When the health of the gums is compromised, black triangular shapes might develop between your teeth, right along your gum line. Your dentist can diagnose the reason for your black triangles, addressing any medical issues that may be contributing to gum inflammation before planning for cosmetic treatment if that’s something you choose to pursue. The cost for fixing black triangles will depend on the cause and severity of the issue, the number of treatments needed, and the type of treatment or treatments used. Any treatment for black triangles will first aim to halt their progression. If gum disease is present, you may be referred to a periodontist if the damage to your gums is beyond the scope of your general dentist; these dental specialists focus on repairing and restoring the tissues that support and stabilize the teeth, holding them in the mouth.
When black triangles form because of overly aggressive brushing or flossing, their progression can be controlled with the adoption of gentler oral hygiene practices. It’s still important to brush twice daily and floss daily, but it’s also important to do so safely and effectively, and your dental hygienist can show you the proper techniques. If you choose to repair your black triangles with a cosmetic treatment once any medical concerns are addressed, you might consider a dental bonding treatment. In these treatments, your dentist uses composite dental resin to build up the structure of the tooth or of the gum tissue, filling in the triangle gaps with dental compound and camouflaging their appearance. These bonding treatments cost anywhere from $300 to $600 per tooth. Dentists may also recommend porcelain veneers to reshape the affected teeth, sometimes adding porcelain veneers to bonded teeth to enhance the appearance of both treatments. These cosmetic restorations create a stunning smile and can cost between $1000 to $1500 per tooth.
Periodontal treatments and other dental procedures are considered medically necessary and should be included in any dental insurance plan, but you shouldn’t expect cosmetic treatments to be covered. Of course, the most affordable way to fix black triangles is by helping to prevent them in the first place. With effective brushing and flossing, regular visits to the dentist, a balanced diet, and a generally healthy lifestyle, this could be a realistic goal and an excellent way to avoid the costs of medical and cosmetic procedures alike. If you choose not to repair your black triangles, make sure to see your dentist regularly so they can help you keep gum disease and tooth decay at bay. They will examine your mouth and teeth for decay or disease, carefully cleaning any hard-to-reach areas with professional tools. Your dentist may recommend specialized tools or products to clean the nooks inside your black triangles, helping you do your part in managing your oral health while working to minimize the appearance of black triangles between your teeth.