Prevalence of Black Triangle in Dentistry: A cross-sectional study

Background: The black triangle is a global problem and the fourth most common aesthetic problem in the world. Aim: this study aims to evaluate the prevalence of black triangle among a group of people according to: tooth shape,distance from contact point to crest of the bone, orthodontic treatment, age, distance between roots, periodontitis and gingival phenotype and gender. Material and Methods: We conducted a clinical examination of 75 patients at a university dental clinic. Data were collected on age, oral hygiene habits, periodontal health, previous orthodontic treatment, and perception of interdental spaces. Clinical evaluation focused on the presence and severity of black triangles and associated factors. Results: A total of 75 patients participated in this study. The age of the participants ranged from 20 to 55 years. Over half of the sample (72%) was aged above 35 years. Most participants were females (80%) and medically free (80%). A significant difference was observed in the distance from the contact point to the alveolar bone crest, with Class II showing a greater mean distance than Class I (p = 0.01).Conclusion: the higher prevalence of black triangles in Class II cases may be attributed to this greater contact-to-crest distance, highlighting the importance of considering alveolar bone levels in esthetic and periodontal treatment planning .