Gaps in teeth are more common than you might think. You may see them as a quirky feature or something you'd rather fix.
In this blog, you can learn about the causes of these gaps and the available treatments to close them.
What Gaps in Teeth?
Alright, let’s start with the basics.
Gaps in teeth are called diastema. They are just the noticeable spaces between two or more teeth. They can show up anywhere in your mouth, but they’re most often seen between the front teeth. Some folks think it adds a bit of charm and character, while others might feel a bit self-conscious.
Whatever your thoughts, it’s good to know why these gaps occur and what can be done about them.
Alright, now let’s discuss why these gaps in teeth happen.
Causes of gaps in teeth
Sometimes, it’s simply how your teeth grow. If your teeth end up a bit smaller than your jawbone, you might see gaps appearing naturally.
Were you a thumb-sucker as a kid?
That habit can push your front teeth forward, which can create gaps between them. Adults also need to watch out for tongue thrusting. It's when your tongue pushes against your teeth while you swallow or talk. This subtle pressure can slowly move your teeth apart, contributing to the gaps you see.
Gum disease is another culprit. As it weakens the bone that holds your teeth in place, it can create spaces between them. This is more common as we get older and if your dental care hasn’t been top-notch.
If you’ve lost a tooth, nearby teeth might shift to fill the gap. This can cause new gaps to form in unexpected places.
These factors can all play a part in why some people end up with gaps between their teeth.
Symptoms outlining gaps in teeth
Gaps in your teeth are often easy to see. Beyond the visual cue, there are a few other things to keep an eye on.
You might notice your teeth feeling a bit wobbly or shifting around. This movement can be subtle. It might become more noticeable over time, especially if you're feeling with your tongue or noticing a change in how your teeth feel when you bite.
Another thing you might experience is food getting stuck in those gaps. Gaps can be a tiny food trap! This can be a bit annoying, especially when you’re trying to enjoy a good meal.
Sometimes, these gaps can also affect your speech a bit. They can cause a lisp or other minor issues. Not everyone with a gap has this issue. But, it's something to be aware of if you notice changes in how you speak or say certain words.
The symptoms vary from person to person. But, if you notice these signs and gaps, it might be worth talking to your dentist. They can tell you what options are available to address them.
Now after all these discussions, let’s talk about how dentists can help close those gaps in your teeth. There are a few options they might suggest, depending on your situation and what you prefer.
Treatment for Gap in teeth preferred by Dentists
First up, we’ve got braces.
These clever tools for your teeth use gentle pressure to gradually move your teeth closer together over time. It’s a bit like a long-term project—effective, but you’ll need to be patient while your teeth do their thing.
Now, if you’re not keen on the idea of metal braces, Invisalign could be the go.
These are clear, custom-made aligners that fit snugly over your teeth. They’re nearly invisible and can work just as well as braces for closing gaps. You wear a new set of aligners every couple of weeks, each one gently nudging your teeth into place.
Another option is teeth gap fillings.
Your dentist uses a special material to fill the gaps between your teeth. It’s a quicker fix than braces or aligners and often more affordable. If you’re curious about the cost, just ask your dentist about teeth gap filling to get an idea.
For those after a Hollywood smile, veneers might be the ticket.
These thin shells are custom-made to fit over your teeth, covering up any gaps and giving you a flawless grin. They’re a bit like getting a makeover for your teeth—instant transformation!
Lastly, if you’ve lost a tooth and that’s causing gaps, dental implants could be the solution.
These are like little anchors. Your dentist places them in your jawbone, where they fuse with the bone. They act as sturdy replacements for missing teeth. They’re strong, durable, and can fill gaps in your smile for the long haul.
Putting it all together
Each treatment for teeth gaps has its pros and cons. So, talk to your dentist to find out which one suits you best. Whether you want a small fix or a complete smile makeover, there's a solution out there. It will close those gaps and give you a smile you'll love.
Walk into the Local Dental Clinic or book your visit now.
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