What does “Black triangle” mean?
A black triangle is a dark triangular space that appears on the gum side between teeth. It can be understood as the relationship between the interdental papilla, which is the gum between teeth, and the form of tooth contact.
Original spelling: 블랙 트라이앵글
Why do I see space?
This may occur if the gums between the teeth are reduced or if the teeth are triangular and the space below the contact point is large. Since the condition of periodontal tissue and the arrangement and shape of teeth both affect the cause, the cause cannot be determined based on appearance alone.
There is a difference between the entire space between the teeth and the space created only on the gum side. As the tooth relationship changes before and after orthodontic treatment, previously hidden spaces may become visible.
Which methods do you compare?
If you have gum inflammation, take care of your periodontal condition first. If necessary, we consider adjusting the tooth arrangement or supplementing the contact shape with resin, etc., but if the teeth are widened too much, it may be difficult to clean or their shape may become unnatural.
Filling a space is not the same as restoring the gums and bone to their original state. Ask which tissues the plan would change and how.
Daily care
Ask about an interdental cleaning method suited to the size of the space. Bleeding, swelling, pus, or a suddenly widening gap calls for assessment of periodontal health, rather than being treated as an appearance concern alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are black triangles cavities?
The dark-looking space itself is not a cavity. We distinguish the cause by looking at the type of tooth contact, interdental gums, and surrounding supporting tissue.
If I fill it with resin, will my gums grow back?
Changing the shape of a tooth with a restoration is different from restoring gum tissue. When reducing visible space, easy-to-clean contours and gum condition must be taken into consideration.
Do black triangles after orthodontic treatment always require veneers?
Observation, periodontal care, or restoration may be considered depending on tooth shape and alignment, contact points, and gum condition. A specific method should not be chosen on appearance alone.
3 things to check before black triangle consultation
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Are the interdental papillae, contact points, and periodontal tissue checked together?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic explains the treatment needed based on the current state of tooth decay and the gums. The treatment extent is determined from the diagnosis.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic compare reshaping only the necessary areas with other alternatives?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic monitors the progress of tooth decay and determines the treatment range by considering the tooth tissue that can be preserved.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together - Care after treatment
Does the clinic evaluate whether interdental cleaning is possible after reducing the space?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic provides guidance on hygiene and regular check-ups after gum treatment. Ask about care suited to your teeth and gum condition.
Integrated treatment that examines cavities and gums together

