Gaps between the teeth, also known as diastemas, can be a source of insecurity for some people. They may feel self-conscious about their appearance and want to find a way to close the gaps. If you’re one of these people, you’re in luck! There are several options to fix gaps in your teeth, including braces, clear aligners, resin bonding, veneers and dental implants. This article will explore each option in detail and provide tips for maintaining a healthy, gap-free smile.
What Are Gaps Between Teeth?
Gaps between teeth, or Diastemas, are a condition in which a space or gap exists between two or more teeth. This condition is common in children and adults and can be caused by various factors, including genetics, dental structure, teeth alignment issues and the size and shape of the teeth and jaws.
In essence, gaps between teeth are natural and may not require any treatment. However, for some individuals, gap teeth may cause aesthetic concerns or lead to chewing or speaking problems.
What Causes Gap Teeth?
Missing or Undersized Teeth
Gaps between teeth can occur for various reasons. One of these reasons is genetics, which can lead to undersized teeth, particularly the upper lateral incisors (the teeth located on either side of the two upper front teeth). In some cases, the size of the tooth may be too small for the jaw bone, which can also contribute to the formation of gaps between your teeth. A mismatch between teeth and jaw size may require orthodontic treatment to correct the teeth and jaw alignment.
Large Labial Frenum
The labial frenum is a small piece of tissue that connects the upper or lower lip to the gum tissue above or below the front teeth. When this tissue is larger than normal, it can affect the way the teeth develop and may form a gap between the teeth.
An enlarged labial frenum was previously thought to be the cause of many gaps between teeth that did not close on their own. However, it is now understood that this is only a small percentage of cases.
Gum Disease
Migration of the teeth, or the movement of teeth out of their normal position, can be a sign of advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis. It is caused by inflammation of the gums and can damage the bone that supports the teeth. A red, swollen, loose tooth, bone loss, or bleeding gum should be addressed as soon as possible to mitigate the effects of gum disease. When the bone becomes damaged, it may no longer be able to hold the teeth in place, leading to tooth loss and the formation of gaps between the remaining teeth.
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Incorrect Swallowing Reflexes
When swallowing normally, the tongue should press against the roof of the mouth. However, some people may push their tongue against the front teeth when swallowing. This repetitive pressure on the front teeth can cause them to shift forward over time, leading to a gap between the teeth.
Bad Habits
Certain habits can put excessive pressure on the front teeth, causing them to shift forward and create a gap between the teeth. These habits are most commonly seen in children but can also affect adults. Thumb sucking is a common habit that can create gaps between the front teeth due to the sucking pressure it places on the teeth. Other habits, such as lip sucking, tongue thrusting, and similar behaviours, can also lead to the development of gaps between the teeth.
Temporary Gappy Teeth
It is common for children to develop temporary gaps between their teeth, known as diastemas when their primary teeth (baby teeth) fall out. These gaps are most often seen when only the central incisors (the two flat upper front teeth in the upper jaw) have come in. These gaps usually close on their own when the permanent teeth (adult teeth) come in, and treatment is generally not necessary as it is considered a normal part of development. Dentists typically do not recommend treatment for these temporary teeth gaps.
4 Treatments for Gaps Between Teeth
If gapped teeth are causing problems or affecting a person’s self-esteem, treatment may be necessary. However, if the gaps do not cause any issues, they can be left as is. It is important to speak with a dental professional who can assess any potential problems and recommend treatment options.
Orthodontists, prosthodontists, and oral maxillofacial surgeons are specialized dental professionals who can help with the correction of gaps between teeth. The best course of treatment will depend on the cause of the gap and the individual’s specific needs and preferences.
1. Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is a common option for correcting gap teeth. This treatment involves the use of dental braces or clear aligners to move the teeth into their proper positions gradually.
Several types of braces can be used for teeth gaps, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. The type of appliance chosen will depend on the severity of the gap, the patient’s age, and their personal preferences.
It can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the severity of the gaps and the patient’s cooperation with the treatment plan. It is important for the patient to follow the orthodontist’s instructions for wearing orthodontic appliances and maintaining good oral hygiene during treatment.
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2. Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a procedure that involves applying a tooth-coloured resin filling material to the surface of the teeth in order to improve their appearance. This procedure can be used to fill gaps between the teeth.
It is a relatively quick and simple procedure that can be completed in one office visit. It is generally less expensive than other options for correcting gap teeth, such as porcelain veneers or dental crowns.
3. Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of ceramic material or resin that are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth in order to improve their appearance. They can be used to close gaps between the teeth.
There are two main types of veneers: porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Porcelain veneers are made of a thin layer of porcelain that is fired in a laboratory, while composite veneers are made of a tooth-coloured composite resin material that is applied directly to the tooth.
The process of placing veneers requires minimal tooth preparation. Veneers are a more permanent solution for correcting gap teeth than dental bonding options. They are also more resistant to staining and can last for many years with proper care. It is a simple and cost-effective treatment.
Veneers can be a good option for filling gaps between the teeth, and it is possible to achieve very good cosmetic outcomes. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine if veneers are the best option for your individual needs and goals.
4. Dental Implants
Dental implants are used for closing the gaps in teeth that are caused by missing teeth. They are a popular option for replacing missing teeth because titanium fuses well with the jawbone. Although dental implants are a great option, they are not suitable for all patients.
The best way to determine which solution is right for you is to schedule an appointment with your dentist or have a free assessment by an Oral Health Therapist at Urban Smile.
Why Do You Need to Fix Gapped Teeth?
Gaps between teeth are a common dental condition characterized by spaces between two or more teeth. While some people may think that gapped teeth are a cosmetic issue, there are several important reasons you may want to consider fixing them.
One reason to fix gapped teeth is to improve your oral hygiene. When there is a gap between your teeth, food and bacteria can easily get trapped in that space. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and Gingivitis, resulting in tooth loss or other serious dental issues. By closing the gap, you can improve your ability to brush and floss effectively and reduce your risk of these problems.
Another reason to fix gapped teeth is to improve your appearance. Many people feel self-conscious about gaps between their teeth. Some may feel like they stand out when they smile and speak. By closing the gaps, you can improve your smile and increase your confidence in your appearance.
Gapped teeth can also cause problems with your bite. When there is a gap between your teeth, it can affect the way your teeth come together when you bite down. This can lead to problems with your jaw joint or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and result in pain or discomfort when eating or speaking. By closing the gap, you can improve your bite and reduce the risk of these problems.
Closing gaps between teeth that are caused by the extraction of decayed or teeth affected by gum disease if often important. If there are spaces caused by this for long periods of time the other teeth in the arch may migrate into the space and tip over causing bit problems. The teeth on the opposing arch may also migrate into this gap.
It is important to consult with a dentist or have a free assessment by an Oral Health Therapist at Urban Smile to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your specific needs and goals. After-care is also important to maintain the health and longevity of your teeth and gums. Regular cleaning and maintenance, such as wearing a retainer, brushing and flossing, can help you keep a beautiful smile for years.
FAQs
Clear aligners are a great alternative to braces and are generally considered effective at closing gaps between teeth, but the specific speed at which they can close will depend on the severity of the gap and the specific treatment plan used. Clear aligners generally work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth over time, gradually moving them into their desired positions. The length of treatment with clear aligners can vary widely, but it is typically several months to a few years. It is important to follow your orthodontist’s treatment plan and wear your aligners as directed to ensure the best possible results.
Treatment for gapped teeth is generally not painful, but you may experience some discomfort when your braces are tightened or when you begin wearing a new set of aligners. Over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate any discomfort you may experience.
The cost of treatment for gapped teeth can vary widely depending on the specific treatment being used and your individual needs. Discussing the cost of treatment with your dental professional and health insurance provider before starting treatment is a good idea.