Ways to Fix a Front Tooth Gap

While a few celebrities have embraced their front tooth gap with pride, most people are less confident about this wide space that intrudes their smile. Whether it is small or large, a gap (called diastema) between the upper front teeth can be a real threat to your overall smile appearance. This leads many patients to see correction from a dentist. You may be surprised to learn that there is more than one way to fix a front tooth gap, and it may be easier than you think!

The Reason for Your Gap

There are several factors that can cause gaps between your teeth, including those that happen over time as well as those that were present at birth. Here are some top reasons for your unsightly front tooth gap:

• Imbalance between the size of your jaw and the size of your teeth
• Teeth are undersized
• Missing teeth
• Oversized labial frenum (tissue that hangs between your front top two teeth)
• Thumbsucking or other bad habits
• Misalignment or malocclusion

It is important to determine the cause of your front tooth gap before you seek correction. Gaps in your smile can be more than just a cosmetic issue. Misalignment or periodontal issues need to be addressed so that worsening problems do not occur. Knowing the culprit of your gap can also determine the best course of treatment.

Closing in the Gap

When it comes to treating gaps between your teeth, you have options. The best solution is based on the condition of your smile, your teeth alignment, the size of your gaps and your overall goals. Treatment options include:

Invisalign

Clear orthodontic systems like Invisalign are available to move your front teeth together and close the gap. This is ideal if you have other minor orthodontic issues.

Bonding

Bonding with tooth-colored composite resin is excellent for those who don’t have alignment issues and who have very small gaps between their teeth. Bonding is quick, painless and affordable.

Porcelain Veneers

If your gaps are too wide for dental bonding, and you are not able or willing to undergo orthodontics, then you may consider porcelain veneers. Veneers are permanent shells of porcelain that cover the front teeth and mimic perfectly beautiful teeth.

Crowns

Dental crowns are best for large gaps that are accompanied by severely damaged teeth. Crowns can restore teeth that are severely eroded, chipped or discolored, but they can also change their shape to fill in smile gaps.

To learn more about closing your front tooth gap and gaining a more confident smile, call Dr. Tejal Kakade in Carrollton. We offer excellence in general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry!