Cost to Fix Black Triangles?
The clinical term for black triangles between the teeth is open gingival embrasures, though they really are just triangle-shaped gaps between two teeth. It is estimated that nearly three-quarters of adults have black triangles; they’re certainly common, but they’re also often considered unsightly and are a popular target for cosmetic dentistry solutions. Even when people aren’t bothered by their appearance, dentists will usually recommend treating black triangles, which can easily accumulate bacterial plaque, tartar, and food debris and become more difficult to clean. If you notice these triangular gaps appearing at the root ends of your teeth, see your dentist. There are several different reasons black triangles occur, and many of these are related to the overall oral health, so sometimes, the cost of fixing black triangles has to include other medical or orthodontic treatments. A consultation with your dentist can determine your best course of treatment, and you’ll discuss the cost of these adjacent treatments as well. When cosmetic dental treatments are recommended, you and your dentist can decide which type will best meet your clinical, aesthetic, and budgetary needs.
The two most common cosmetic dental treatments used to fix black triangles are composite resin bonding, and veneers. The cost of these treatments is based in part on the location and expertise of the dentist and the extent of the procedure. The dental bonding procedure is a non-surgical treatment that takes a few months to complete, as the resin is applied in thin layers over time so the gums are able to flexibly, naturally adapt to a gradually increased tooth size. On average, the cost for dental composite bonding is about $300 to $600 per tooth, and the bonding material will need to be replaced around every five to ten years. Some dental insurance providers cover dental bonding, while others consider it a strictly cosmetic procedure that isn’t covered by insurance, so make sure to check with your insurance provider as you’re researching your options.
Many patients prefer the appearance of dental veneers for correcting black triangles and other imperfections, though this treatment is more invasive and more expensive than composite resin bonding. To place dental veneers, the dentist must first remove a thin layer of dental enamel from the fronts of the teeth, making space to accommodate the veneers. These veneers are thin layers of porcelain or dental composite that are bonded to the fronts of the repaired teeth, redesigning their size, shape, and overall appearance. Some dentists use composite resin bonding treatments in conjunction with dental veneers for certain treatments, depending on the extent of the treatment and the needs and desires of the patient, though veneers can also be used on their own. The expected lifespan of a porcelain veneer averages around ten years, while composite veneers generally last about half as long. Composite veneers cost about $800 per tooth, if not more, while porcelain and ultrathin porcelain laminate veneers land in the $1,500 to $2,000 price range. It is unlikely that a dental insurance policy will include veneers, which are considered an entirely cosmetic procedure.
In some cases, black triangles can be fixed by plumping up the gum tissue, which can be done with minor surgical techniques or through the use of hyaluronic acid injections in the tissues. While these hyaluronic acid treatments are a relatively new way of addressing receding gum tissue, and regular maintenance injections are needed throughout treatment, they show promise as an affordable, accessible way to revitalize gingival tissue and shrink black triangles. Before using any type of filler in the gums, existing gum disease must be treated, along with any other oral health concerns. In general, the cost of these injectables is around $100 per site, and injections are usually needed every six months or so. For many people, this minor inconvenience is preferable to the expense and invasiveness of surgical gingival rejuvenation treatments, which may also be an option.