Mark Padilla, DDS, MS

Yes! Black triangles can absolutely be fixed. The quickest fix would be bondings, but the glue can stain or chip off. A better fix would be filing the contacts and closing the space with Invisalign or braces.

Dr. Mark Padilla

Invisalign is not necessarily any more permanent than braces. It is just another option of how to move your teeth. It is probably best to consult with a local orthodontist to see which option may be better for you. If they both will accomplish your goals for a better smile and bite you can pick whichever best meets your lifestyle goals.

Dr. Mark

You probably want to mention your sensitivity to your orthodontist and dentist. During the process of braces it is harder to keep things as clean as one should so it is easier to develop cavities. I always recommend that my patients get a good cleaning and exam following braces removal. It is also possible that your sensitivity is due to exposed nerves. There are nerves in the ligament space that holds the tooth in the bone. When teeth are moved the bone remodels and the nerves can become exposed and cause a zing of pain/sensitivity. This sort of sensitivity usually resolves on its own over the following months. The only way to tell which is the cause is to rule out cavities through a dental exam. In the meantime Prevident toothpaste and a product called MI Paste Plus can help with the sensitivity.

The most common signs of gum disease are redness and swelling, although any abnormality that doesn’t resolve within 2 weeks should be evaluated by a dental professional. The best way to avoid oral health problems is to maintain regular cleanings and exams— even the most basic dental insurance usually includes these preventative services with no out of pocket cost. As trained professionals with specialized instruments and radiographs they will be able to identify, diagnose and treat to make sure your family stays in good oral health.

Sorry to hear about your situation. If this is a common problem for you then yes, this could be the result of dental relapse and your upper teeth narrowing after you stopped wearing your retainer. What prevents you from biting your cheek every time you bite down is the horizontal overlap of your upper teeth over your lowers-- meaning your upper teeth are about half a tooth wider than the lower teeth. If you don't have that overlap you might want to consider seeing an orthodontist to help you reestablish a proper bite. If biting your cheek isn't a common problem for you then probably just bit down funny and caught it. Unfortunately once you have bitten your cheek once it swells and it is easier to bite it again until it heals. I would recommend warm salt water rinses 2-3 times per day in the mean time with really good brushing and flossing so everything stays clean and it can heal as fast as possible. Best of luck!

Dr. Mark Padilla
Board Certified Orthodontist