It's perfectly normal to have a little space between some or all of your teeth, but if you notice triangular spaces between the bases of your teeth, these gaps may put a serious dent in your self-confidence. Cosmetic dentists call these triangular gaps 'gingival embrasures', and you may wish to have these dark triangles professionally corrected by a cosmetic dentist.

What Causes Gingival Embrasures?

In some cases, gingival embrasures are caused by your genetics. If your teeth naturally taper inwards towards their bases, or your gum line is unusually low, you may have had gingival embrasures ever since your adult teeth first came in.

However, it is more likely that your gingival embrasures are caused by receding gums. As gums shrink and recede, the roots of your teeth gradually become more exposed. Because tooth roots curve inwards, triangular gaps appear between the teeth as the gum line lowers.

Gingival embrasures may also form if you have had a significant amount of orthodontic correction. As your teeth are moved into their proper positions by braces and retainers, their bases may move further apart, causing gingival embrasures to form.

Are Gingival Embrasures Harmful?

You may not like the appearance of gingival embrasures, but in purely medical terms they are harmless. However, if gingival embrasures are formed because of rapid gum recession, you may be suffering from chronic gum disease or another condition that can lead to serious dental health problems. Smoking and a poor diet can also cause or contribute to receding gums

If you notice new gingival embrasures appearing in your mouth, you should visit a dentist as soon as possible for a complete checkup. It may be necessary to treat the cause of the gum recession before your gingival embrasures can be corrected.

How Can Porcelain Veneers Correct Gingival Embrasures?

Having porcelain veneers fitted by a cosmetic dentist is one of the most effective, long-lasting ways to hide the appearance of dental embrasures.

Veneers are thin 'shells' of material, that are fitted over the front-facing surfaces of your teeth. They are designed to look indistinguishable from natural teeth, even under close inspection. They can be used to correct a wide variety of cosmetic dental issues, such as chips and discoloration. Compared to dental crowns, veneers are considerably cheaper and can be fitted more quickly.

The highest quality veneers are made from porcelain because porcelain reflects light in the same way as natural tooth enamel. This means that porcelain veneers will look like real teeth under any lighting conditions. Porcelain is also stronger and more durable than other materials used to make veneers, such as plastic composites.

To correct your gingival embrasures, your cosmetic dentist will craft specialized veneers that are slightly wider than the bases of your teeth. These veneers retain their natural appearance, and will effectively fill in the triangular gaps between the bases of your teeth, improving their appearance and restoring your confidence.

For more information, contact a company like McMillin & Christian Family Dentistry.