Does the teeth gap you’ve had since your childhood bother you even more now? Do you want a pain-free orthodontic treatment for gapped teeth? Do you wonder where the actual problem lies?
Diastema, commonly known as teeth gaps, is a common phenomenon. In the US, more than 95% of children suffer from Diastema. It appears most often between the two upper front teeth. However, gaps can occur between any two teeth. There isn’t one single cause of Diastema, but rather several possible contributing factors. Six major causes of Diastema are listed below:
- Size of teeth and jaw bone: A mismatch between these two can lead to gaps or even crowding of teeth.
- Genetics: In some cases, Diastema runs in the family too.
- Oversized labial frenum: Overgrown tissue in gums and in between teeth can cause abnormal gaps in teeth.
- Habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting: These childhood habits if not overcome with time can lead to teeth gaps.
- Incorrect swallowing reflexes: During swallowing the tongue should ideally be touching the roof of your mouth. If the reflexes lead the tongue to push against front teeth, it causes teeth gaps over time.
- Periodontal disease: Gum infection, swelling and soreness in gums weakens your gums and eventually leads to Diastema.
The gap between teeth can result into pockets between gums and teeth which creates space for food to stay there. The orthodontic treatment for gapped teeth also known as Diastema depends on the underlying cause of it. If the problem is nothing more than a cosmetic issue and doesn’t indicate gum disease the treatment should be preferred accordingly.
8 Pain-free Ways to Say Goodbye to Your Teeth Gaps
- Teeth gap bands: The basic principle of these bands is that you slip one around your tooth gap. Results are seen in as little as a week with larger gaps closing in 3-6 months.
- Invisalign: These are clear plastic trays that are designed to move the teeth just like braces; however, they are a lot more cosmetic and comfortable. These are usually used instead of braces.
- Dental bonding: It is the easiest, quickest, and most economical way to fix those stubborn teeth gaps. The simple procedure involves the application of a tooth-colored resin material to your teeth. The material is shaped to look natural and then hardened with a special light, which ultimately bonds it to the tooth to close the gap in your smile.
- Crowns and veneers: Crowns are porcelain shells that cover the hall tooth whereas veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front of the tooth. If just one tooth is too small or chipped, a tooth-coloured crown may work well to correct the issue. This treatment involves the bonding of thin pieces of porcelain over the top of the teeth to correct gaps, irregular shapes, chips and stains.
- Implants: Dental implants are replacement teeth. Implants are fixed or removable replacement teeth that match your natural teeth. In this case, a fake enamel tooth is surgically inserted into the gum or bone. Sometimes, the tooth is attached to the surrounding teeth as well. This method is used for extremely wide teeth gaps.
- Dentures: These are removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Two types of dentures are available. Complete dentures and partial dentures. Dentures are used for most extreme teeth gaps.
- Braces: These work by applying continuous pressure over a period of time to slowly move your teeth in a specific direction. Braces have wires and brackets that put pressure on teeth and slowly move them together, which close a gap. Invisible or removable braces are also used to fix Diastema.
- Retainers: This orthodontic treatment for gapped teeth is most often used after braces to keep the teeth in alignment while the mouth adjusts to not having braces. Three types of retainers are available. Namely, Hawley retainer, clear aligner retainer and fixed retainer.
Some Diastemas aren’t preventable but there are ways to prevent it from developing further. Breaking a thumb-sucking habit in time, focusing on proper swallowing reflexes and practicing good oral hygiene on a regular basis are some preventive measures.
All the treatments mentioned above can help you fix teeth gaps efficiently. Visit your dentist today and find a suitable solution for yourself.
About Emily Taylor
Emily Taylor found the perfect fit for herself as the Online Marketing Manager at Thurman Orthodontics in Fresno CA as she believes that a great smile does more than just make a person look great – it makes them feel great as well. The power of a smile has always been a mystery to Emily and she loves researching and writing about it. She loves to write about everything to do with a healthy bite and a beautiful smile – whether is it ways to achieve it or the importance of it in the various aspects of life. What brings a big smile on Emily’s face is her family and surfing. She also likes to bake and her children and co-workers call her the cookie fairy!
Veneers are thin custom made shells that are placed over the surface of your existing teeth. There are different types of veneers available. The two most common types of veneers are porcelain and composite. Both types achieve similar results using different materials. If the gap between your teeth is small, your dentist may be able to use two veneers to close the visible space. However, if the gap is larger, additional veneers or alternate treatments may be necessary.