Dermal Filler Treatment for Black Triangles and Gum Recession Around the Teeth
In addition to facial rejuvenation, dermal fillers can also play a transformative role in enhancing the aesthetics of the smile itself. One of the lesser-known yet highly effective applications of dermal fillers involves treating “black triangles,” which are the small dark spaces that can appear between teeth due to gum recession or loss of papilla (the soft tissue that fills the space between teeth). These gaps can make the smile appear aged or uneven, even when the teeth themselves are healthy. At Scottsdale Smile Center, our experienced dentists can use advanced filler techniques to carefully restore a more balanced, youthful gumline and harmonious smile appearance.
Black triangles are often caused by natural gum recession, periodontal disease, or the gradual loss of bone and tissue support that can occur with age. They may also develop after orthodontic treatment or dental restorations if the gum tissue does not fully rebound between the teeth. While traditional dental solutions may not always address this aesthetic concern directly, dermal filler treatment offers a minimally invasive way to restore volume and improve the overall look of the smile.
Using specialized hyaluronic acid-based fillers—similar to those in the JUVÉDERM® line—our dentists can strategically place micro-injections near the affected areas to subtly plump the soft tissue and minimize the visibility of black triangles. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that attracts and retains moisture, helping to hydrate and volumize the tissue around the teeth. The result can be a smoother, more continuous gumline that blends seamlessly with the natural contours of the teeth.
The Procedure
This treatment is typically quick and comfortable, often taking less than 30 minutes to complete. Because the procedure is minimally invasive and requires no surgical intervention, most patients can resume normal activities right away. Some temporary swelling or tenderness may occur, but these effects usually subside within a few days. The results are immediate and can last several months or longer, depending on the specific filler used and individual tissue response.
Dermal fillers can also complement other cosmetic dental treatments, such as porcelain veneers or teeth whitening, by refining the overall symmetry and proportion of the smile. For patients experiencing gum recession or small black triangles that detract from an otherwise healthy and attractive smile, filler treatment offers an innovative, natural-looking solution that can restore balance and confidence.
At Scottsdale Smile Center, our dentists combine their expertise in both cosmetic dentistry and facial esthetics to deliver results that enhance not just your teeth, but the total harmony of your smile.