Black Triangles Between Teeth | Bioclear Treatment Dublin Seapoint Clinic
A gentle, minimally invasive way to fill the small dark gaps near your gums, while keeping your natural teeth.
What are black triangles?
Black triangles are the small, dark gaps that can appear between your teeth, just above the gumline. Normally, the gum fills the space between teeth. When it shrinks back, a small triangle of space is left behind.
They’re very common, especially as we get older. Many people notice them in photos, or find that food gets caught more easily. They can make a smile look older than you feel.
Why do they happen?
There’s usually more than one reason, and finding the cause helps us choose the right treatment.
Natural ageing
Gums gradually shrink back over the years.
Gum disease
Past or current gum inflammation can cause the gum and bone between the teeth to recede.
Tooth shape
Teeth that are wider at the biting edge and narrower near the gum are more likely to leave a gap.
Straightening teeth
After braces or aligners, gaps that were hidden by crowding can sometimes appear.
Brushing too hard
Over time, heavy brushing can push the gums back.
How we treat them: the Bioclear Method
The Bioclear Method is a form of tooth-coloured bonding designed for black triangles. Instead of shaping material by hand, the dentist uses a thin, clear mould shaped like a natural tooth. Warmed composite is gently injected into the mould, so it flows into the gap and blends with your tooth.
Why patients choose it
- ✓Minimally invasive: usually little or no drilling, so your natural tooth is kept.
- ✓Natural-looking: the clear mould follows the natural shape of the tooth, close to the gum.
- ✓Smooth finish: the result is polished to a high shine, which makes it easier to keep clean.
- ✓Usually done in one visit, depending on how many teeth are treated.
- ✓Can be added to or repaired in the future if needed.
What to expect
STEP 1
Consultation
We check your teeth and gums, take photos, and talk about what you’d like to change.
STEP 2
Gum health first
If your gums need care, we treat that first, because healthy gums give the best base for treatment.
STEP 3
Preparation
The teeth are cleaned thoroughly to remove the film of bacteria that sits on them, so the bonding attaches well.
STEP 4
Shaping
A clear mould is placed around the tooth, and warmed composite is injected and set with a light.
STEP 5
Polishing
The bonding is shaped and polished to blend with your natural teeth.
STEP 6
Aftercare
We show you how to clean between your teeth, and recommend regular hygiene visits.
Is it right for me?
The Bioclear Method can suit many people with black triangles, but not everyone. It depends on the size of the gaps, the health of your gums, and your bite. At your consultation, we’ll explain your options honestly, including if another treatment would suit you better.
Before and after
The gap between the front teeth was filled with tooth-coloured bonding, keeping the natural teeth.
Every smile is different, and results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
Most patients find it comfortable, because it usually involves little or no drilling. If any numbing is needed, we’ll talk you through it first.
How long does it last?
That depends on your bite, habits and how well the teeth are cared for. With good cleaning at home and regular check-ups, bonding is designed to last for years, and it can be repaired if needed.
Will it look natural?
The composite is matched to the shade of your teeth and shaped with a mould that follows the natural tooth, so it’s designed to blend in.
Can black triangles come back?
If the gums keep receding, new gaps can appear. That’s why we look after your gum health as part of the treatment.
Is this the same as composite bonding?
It’s a type of composite bonding, but done with a special technique and moulds designed for the gaps between teeth near the gum.
MEET YOUR DENTIST
Dr Golara Farhoomand
General Dentist
Golara provides black triangle treatment at Seapoint Clinic. She takes an evidence-based approach, with a particular focus on gum health, and enjoys helping patients feel comfortable with how their smile looks.
Meet Dr Golara →
Talk to an Expert
Ready to talk about your smile?
Book a complimentary consultation with our Treatment Coordinator at our Blackrock or Sandyford clinic. We’ll talk through your options and answer any questions, with no pressure to go ahead.
