Unsightly black triangles, a tricky restorative procedure made easy with flowable composites and warming

Author: Dr. Michael Cai

Date: 2020

Download the full article: Click here to download

This article presents a minimally invasive and highly aesthetic approach to managing black triangles—gaps between teeth that commonly appear after orthodontic treatment. Dr. Michael Cai demonstrates how warmed sculptable and flowable composites, used with Bioclear matrices, simplify a procedure traditionally considered complex and unpredictable.

Key Takeaways

The Challenge of Black Triangles

  • Commonly develop after orthodontic treatment, often causing aesthetic concerns.
  • Conventional solutions like veneers and crowns require tooth preparation, making them less conservative.
  • Traditional composite bonding can be difficult in the interproximal area, leading to inconsistent results.

Case Study: A Minimally Invasive Approach

A male patient in his mid-30s presented with black triangles in the lower anterior region. Referred initially for gingival grafting, he opted instead for a non-surgical composite restoration using the Bioclear Method.

Black triangle case before Bioclear treatment

Treatment process included:

  • Rubber dam isolation to protect the gingiva and ensure a dry field.
  • Meticulous biofilm removal to maximize bond strength to uncut enamel.
  • Placement of Bioclear matrices, eliminating the need for wedges and providing ideal anatomical contours.
  • Scotchbond Universal adhesive applied prior to Filtek Supreme Flowable composite injection.
  • Warmed Filtek Supreme XTE sculptable composite layered for natural contour and durability.
  • Finishing and polishing to ensure a smooth, lifelike result.

Why This Technique Stands Out

  • No Tooth Reduction – Preserves the natural structure.
  • Predictable & Easier to Perform – Bioclear matrices improve anatomical outcomes over traditional Mylar strips.
  • Excellent Aesthetics – Seamless blending and color matching with warmed composite techniques.
  • Minimally Invasive & Comfortable – Often completed without local anaesthesia.

Conclusion

This case study shows how modern composite techniques can conservatively and effectively close black triangles. With proper isolation, matrix selection, and composite handling, what was once a difficult task can now be achieved with predictable, long-lasting, and aesthetic results.

Final result after Bioclear black triangle closure

Download the full article: Click here to download

Back to blog