Spaces are completely normal, and closing the gap between your teeth is simpler than you think with the right orthodontic treatment. Here, our orthodontists in Langley discuss some common causes of spaces and effective options to fix a gap in your front teeth.
Why do gaps form between teeth?
If you've ever wondered how to close a gap in your teeth, you're not alone. Gaps between teeth, especially in the front, are very common and found across all age groups. Dentists refer to this gap as a 'diastema'. Some people embrace their diastema as a distinctive trait, while others opt to close it for cosmetic or functional reasons.
Understanding why gaps develop is key to selecting the most effective treatment. Multiple factors lead to spaces between teeth, and pinpointing the cause helps guarantee long-term results.
- Natural jaw and tooth size differences often cause gaps, especially if hereditary. If your parents had gaps, you might too. The balance between jaw and tooth size affects tooth positioning.
- Childhood habits like thumb-sucking or pacifier use can push teeth forward or cause gaps. Tongue thrusting, pressing against front teeth, can widen gaps. Effects often stay after stopping these habits without orthodontic treatment.
- Gum tissue issues can affect treatment. An oversized labial frenum, connecting the upper lip to the gums, may cause a gap between front teeth. A frenectomy, a type of surgical procedure, might be needed before or during orthodontics to prevent reopening.
- Missing teeth elsewhere can cause remaining teeth to shift and create gaps. Gum disease may lead to bone loss, causing tooth movement and spacing. Your orthodontist will evaluate your oral health to identify any underlying issues.
- Mismatched bite patterns can cause gaps by applying pressure that pushes teeth apart over time. Orthodontic treatment addresses both alignment and bite to prevent this.
Identifying the root cause of your gap helps your orthodontist suggest the most effective, long-lasting solution that not only closes the space but also improves your overall oral health.
Orthodontic treatment effectively closes gaps in teeth by addressing the root cause, moving teeth into proper positions for lasting results. Whether small or noticeable, orthodontic treatments are designed to suit your lifestyle, budget, and goals. Your orthodontist can help find the best approach for your smile.
Traditional Metal Braces
When it comes to fixing teeth gap issues, traditional braces are a reliable solution.
How Braces Work
Braces consist of brackets bonded to your teeth, connected by archwires that exert gentle, consistent pressure. This pressure gradually moves teeth into their correct positions over time. Your orthodontist periodically adjusts the wires to keep guiding your teeth to their proper places.
Metal braces today are smaller, sleeker, and less noticeable than ever. Translucent braces offer a more discreet option, featuring brackets that match your natural tooth colour while delivering the same successful treatment.
Benefits of Braces
Braces are effective at closing gaps of all sizes, from small spaces to large diastemas. They work especially well when you have multiple gaps, crowding issues, or bite problems that need correction along with your gaps. Treatment duration varies based on the size of your gap and overall complexity, but many patients notice significant improvements within 18 to 24 months.
One major advantage of braces is their comprehensive approach to correcting dental issues. While closing your gap, your orthodontist can also address other alignment issues, such as rotated teeth, crowding, overbites, underbites, or crossbites. This ensures your entire smile functions well and looks its best.
Braces work well for patients of all ages. Children and teens often benefit from treatment during their growth years, while adults are typically able to achieve similar results. There's no age limit for creating a healthier, more aligned smile.
Clear Aligners
For those wondering how to discreetly close a gap in their teeth, clear aligners like Invisalign® offer an alternative to traditional braces. These custom-made, transparent trays gradually move your teeth into position using orthodontic technology.
How Clear Aligners Work
Treatment starts with a comprehensive assessment and digital scan of your teeth. Your orthodontist develops a detailed treatment plan outlining how your teeth will shift at each phase. Based on this plan, a series of custom aligners is made, each slightly different from the previous one.
You will wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks before switching to the next in the series. Each aligner applies targeted pressure to specific teeth, gradually moving them into their ideal positions. Treatment time with clear aligners is often comparable to braces, typically ranging from 12 to 18 months, depending on your specific needs. The predictable, planned approach means you'll know from the beginning what to expect.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
Clear aligners provide several benefits, making them increasingly popular among teens and adults. They're almost invisible, so most people won't notice you're receiving orthodontic treatment. This is especially appealing to professionals, students, and those who prefer a subtle approach.
Clear aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out for eating and maintaining oral hygiene without food restrictions. You can also remove them temporarily for events like weddings or presentations, but it is recommended to wear them for 20-22 hours daily for best results.
Which Orthodontic Option Is Right for You?
Choosing how to close a gap depends on personal factors, including the size, cause, and your oral health. Larger gaps or bite issues often require braces, while smaller gaps may be suitable for clear aligners.
Lifestyle can also influence the decision. For example, a musician or a professional athlete might opt for clear aligners so they can be removed during performances or practice.
The best way to decide is to consult a qualified orthodontist. They can assess your needs, explain treatment options, timelines, and what to expect.