What is visible?
A space not fully occupied by gum tissue.
← All explanationsBlack triangles between teeth
Why is there a dark triangle between two teeth?
Black triangles are open spaces between teeth near the gum. The interdental papilla does not completely fill that space, allowing the dark background of the mouth to show. The term describes an appearance rather than a diagnosis.
For training & practice ↓
AI-generated
Choose a view
Below the contact
Teeth may touch higher up while leaving an open space beneath. This differs from a gap extending between the whole teeth.
Check several influences
Tooth shape, contact position, bone and gum tissue affect the papilla. Recession or changes after tooth alignment may make the space more noticeable.
Assess health before changing shape
Examination first checks inflammation and tooth support. Observation, tailored cleaning or changes to shape or position depend on the findings.
At a glance
What is assessed?
Papilla, tooth shape, contacts and supporting tissues.
What is the aim?
A reasoned decision suited to the cause.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available below.
Read the film text in English
Below the contact
Teeth may touch higher up while leaving an open space beneath. This differs from a gap extending between the whole teeth.
Check several influences
Tooth shape, contact position, bone and gum tissue affect the papilla. Recession or changes after tooth alignment may make the space more noticeable.
Assess health before changing shape
Examination first checks inflammation and tooth support. Observation, tailored cleaning or changes to shape or position depend on the findings.
Often confused
Black triangle or diastema?
A black triangle usually sits beneath an existing tooth contact. A diastema is a gap between teeth.
Quick answers
Does it always mean periodontitis?
No. An open embrasure alone does not prove periodontitis. New changes or bleeding deserve assessment.
Will the papilla definitely grow back?
That cannot be promised. Tissue conditions and the cause limit what may be achievable.
Should I clean the space less?
No. Cleaning should fit the space and remain gentle. Suitable interdental technique can be demonstrated.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Is inflammation involved, or does tooth shape mainly explain this space?
A changing space between teeth can be assessed personally.
Discuss the spaces between teethAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Papilla
- Gum tissue between neighbouring teeth.
- Contact area
- Where adjacent teeth touch.
- Bone crest
- Upper edge of tooth-supporting bone.
Make the distinction
A black triangle usually sits beneath an existing tooth contact. A diastema is a gap between teeth.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.