You must have had a gap between your teeth since childhood. For some people, it developed gradually over time. Some people have accepted it to be a part of their normal smile. The others feel awkward every time they look at themselves in the mirror.
If you are one of them who wants to smile without hesitation, there are ways to close the gaps between your teeth. However, some people backout from the treatment considering that braces are the only option and would worsen their look. However, there are a few options other than braces which can fill the gaps between your teeth and enhance your smile without you having to compromise on your look for a year or more like during the braces treatment.
What is a gap between teeth?
In scientific terms a gap between teeth is called a Diastema. Gaps between teeth can occur anywhere, but most people notice it between the front two teeth.
You need not worry if you have small gaps between your teeth. It is not a dental problem. Some people have accepted it as apart of their normal smile.
However, if the gap has appeared recently and has started growing gradually, it might be a sign for you to visit a dentist.
Why do teeth have gaps?
There are many reasons people have gaps in their teeth. Sometimes, it is simply the way their teeth have grown. Some people have smaller teeth compared to the space available for them. Others can have a gap because they lost a tooth which makes the nearby teeth shift from their position. Other reasons include:
- A gum disease
- Having a thick piece of tissue between the front teeth
- Some childhood habits like thumb sucking
- Missing teeth
Finding the cause is important for proceeding with the treatment outcomes. If any of these conditions exist, intervention by a dentist is necessary.
How to close teeth gaps:
- Clear Aligners
- They are transparent plastic trays made according to your teeth size. This results in extreme comfort because it is removal and lifestyle friendly.
- Pain level: Little pressure or discomfort can be felt when there is a switch from one tray to another. They are less painful and irritating than metal braces.
- Metal Braces
- Metal based brackets and wires are fixed to your teeth. This causes pressure on your teeth to move them into a position. This reduces gaps and solves crowding.
- Pain level: Mild discomfort or soreness is very commonly experienced after fitting or adjustments. This pain subsides in a few days.
- Dental filling
- A tooth-colored substance is applied and then prepared to fill the gaps and make the smile appear natural. This is possible only for small gaps between the front teeth.
- Pain level: Minimal to no pain is experienced. Local anesthesia is rarely required for such procedures unless shaping of the tooth is required.
- Dental Veneers
- Veneers are ultra-thin shell-like structures. They are placed on the front surface of the tooth. This closes the teeth gaps and improves the overall look of the smile.
- Pain level: It is a pain-free procedure and causes minimal discomfort.
- Dental Crowns & Bridges
- Made-to-fit dental crowns are designed according to your tooth shape and size. This solves small gap problems.
- Pain level: This involves minimal pain. The discomfort felt is managed by local anesthesia.
- Dental Implants
- When the gap between teeth is created by missing teeth, then a dental implant is considered the best solution. It fills in the space created by a missing tooth with a natural and long-lasting solution.
- Pain level: Dental implant is a surgical procedure which requires expertise. It is performed under local anesthesia. The after-treatment discomfort and pain are managed by the dentist with medications and other methods.
Tips to minimize discomfort after teeth gap filling
- Follow your dentist’s after-care instructions to minimize discomfort and pain. It may be about medications, rinsing, or restriction of certain food temporarily
- Chew on soft food. This will reduce pressure and sensitivity.
- Brushing and flossing regularly in the correct manner will maintain good oral health and also your smile.
- Make sure to avoid too hot or too cold food. This will improve the longevity of your treatment.
The Bottom Line
Some people are okay having gaps and some want to fix them. For the ones wanting to fix it, there are several options.
Bonding helps to close small gaps. Veneers change the way your teeth appear. Braces and aligners may move the teeth and are appropriate when there is alignment or bite issue.
You should be careful while choosing your option, rather than going for the one which seems to be the quickest.
To discuss treatment options for tooth gap filling, visit a dentist. They will guide you through the entire treatment journey and also the treatment best suited for your needs.
FAQs
- How long does tooth gap filling last?
- This depends on the method of tooth gap filling you choose. Dental filling can last up to 5-10 years. Veneers last 10-15 years while clear aligners and metal braces offer permanent solutions.
- Can teeth gaps come back after filling?
- Yes, gaps may return if certain guidelines by the dentist are not followed. Or the underlying issues like tongue thrusting or gum diseases are not addressed. Regular dental checkups are necessary.
- Should we fill the gaps if it is not painful?
- Filling a tooth gap is necessary to maintain good oral health and avoid future problems.
- Can gaps between teeth cause other issues?
- Yes, gaps cause plaque buildup which may cause other health-related issues like decay and gum issues.
- Which method of teeth gap filling is most comfortable?
- Clear aligners and dental veneers are often more comfortable and long-lasting methods.
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