Implants
Black triangles around implants
Small dark gaps that can appear between teeth or implants at the gumline.
What
Gaps at gumline
Cause
Lost gum tissue
Concern
Mostly cosmetic
Treatable
Often yes
Overview
Black triangles are the small dark spaces that can appear between teeth near the gumline when the gum does not fully fill the gap. They are common around implants and where gums have receded.
They are mostly a cosmetic concern, though they can trap food. Several options can reduce them, from reshaping teeth to gum treatment, depending on the cause.
What to know
- Dark gaps between teeth at the gumline
- Caused when gum does not fill the space
- Common with receding gums and after implants
- Mostly cosmetic but can trap food
- Several treatments can reduce them
Common questions
What causes black triangles?
They appear when the gum that normally fills the space between teeth shrinks or does not grow back, often after gum disease, recession or an implant.
Are they harmful?
They are mainly a cosmetic issue, but the gaps can trap food and plaque, so good cleaning matters.
Can they be fixed?
Often yes. Options include reshaping or adding to the teeth, orthodontics, or gum treatment, depending on the cause.
Will the gum grow back on its own?
Lost gum between teeth does not usually grow back by itself, so treatment is aimed at filling or reducing the space.
How do I keep them clean?
Use small interdental brushes or a water flosser to clean the gaps daily and stop food and plaque collecting. Around implants we avoid floss, as it can damage the gum's seal to the restoration.
Related topics
Receding gums
Gums that pull back from the teeth, exposing more of the root.
Dental implants
A titanium post that replaces a missing tooth root and holds a new tooth.
Gum grafting
Adding gum tissue to cover exposed roots or strengthen thin gums.
Gum disease (periodontitis)
A bacterial infection of the gums and bone that support your teeth.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026