Black Triangles & Gum Recession: What They Are—and the Modern, Non-Surgical Treatment Available at 7 to 7 Dental TPC

Written By Travis DeZuba

A healthy smile isn’t just about white teeth—it’s about healthy gums that frame your smile naturally and comfortably. If you’ve noticed small dark spaces between your teeth near the gumline, increasing tooth sensitivity, or gums that seem to be pulling away, you’re not alone.

These concerns are commonly referred to as “black triangles” which is gum recession. These affect far more people than you may realize and there is some GREAT NEWS! There is a non-surgical, FDA-approved treatment option available right here at 7 to 7 Dental – TPC Parkway!

What Are Black Triangles?

Black triangles are small, dark gaps that appear between teeth near the gumline when gum tissue no longer fills the space.

They may be caused by:

  • Gum recession or bone loss

  • Tooth shape or spacing

  • Orthodontic treatment

  • Aging and natural tissue changes

  • Past dental work

While they can seem like a cosmetic issue, black triangles often trap food and plaque, increasing the risk of:

  • Gum inflammation

  • Bad breath

  • Cavities near the roots

  • Progression of gum disease

In other words, they affect both how your smile looks and how healthy it stays.

What Is Gum Recession—and Why It Matters

Gingival recession occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing the root surface. Because roots don’t have protective enamel, recession can lead to:

  • Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets

  • Teeth appearing longer

  • Higher risk of decay

  • Increased discomfort during daily brushing

Common causes include:

  • Gum disease

  • Aggressive brushing

  • Clenching or grinding

  • Tobacco use

  • Hormonal changes

  • Genetics

  • Trauma or injury

Left untreated, recession often progresses over time.

A Modern, Non-Surgical Solution: Gum Builder™

At 7 to 7 Dental TPC, Dr. Carly Tovar, who is certified by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, offers Gum Builder™, an advanced treatment designed to address mild to moderate recession, black triangles, and hypersensitivity—without surgery.

How Gum Builder™ Works

Gum Builder™ uses an FDA-approved, biocompatible CaHA (calcium hydroxyapatite) filler, a material that has been widely researched for its regenerative properties.

When gently injected into the affected gum tissue:

  • The area is “plumped” to minimize or eliminate black triangles

  • Collagen and elastin production is stimulated

  • Gum tissue strength and thickness are improved

  • Long-term tooth sensitivity is reduced or eliminated—often within a week

Why Patients Choose Gum Builder™

  • Non-surgical

  • No downtime

  • Quick in-office treatment

  • Natural-looking results

  • Alternative to traditional gum grafts for eligible patients

For patients with severe recession, surgical options may still be necessary—but many patients qualify for this conservative, modern approach.

What to Expect During Treatment

  • Local anesthetic may be used for comfort

  • Temporary swelling or redness may occur and typically resolves within a few days

  • Results vary by individual, but effects often last 6–12 months

  • Maintenance treatments may be recommended to sustain results

Gum Builder™ is not recommended for individuals who are:

  • Pregnant

  • Active smokers

  • Managing uncontrolled diabetes

A personalized evaluation is essential to determine candidacy.

Why a Hygiene Visit Comes First

Your gums tell a story about your oral health. A professional hygiene visit allows our team to:

  • Assess gum health and recession levels

  • Identify black triangles and sensitivity causes

  • Determine whether Gum Builder™ is right for you

  • Prevent further progression before it becomes surgical

This is why we recommend starting with a hygiene appointment at our TPC Parkway location.

Expert Care You Can Trust at 7 to 7 Dental – TPC Parkway

Dr. Carly Tovar’s certification through the American Academy of Facial Esthetics ensures advanced training in soft-tissue treatments that prioritize function, comfort, and natural results—not just appearance.

At 7 to 7 Dental, we believe patients deserve modern solutions backed by science, explained clearly, and delivered with care.

Ready to Restore Comfort and Confidence?

If you’re experiencing:

  • Black triangles

  • Gum recession

  • Tooth sensitivity

  • Changes in your smile

Now is the time to take action—before it gets worse.


Book a hygiene visit today at 7 to 7 Dental TPC Parkway to learn if Gum Builder™ is right for you!


Call 210-495-2000 or book online at 7to7Dental.com

Travis DeZuba
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