How to Fix Gapped Teeth

A diastema is the space or gap between two teeth. Gaps often appear between upper front teeth, but diastemas can develop between any teeth due to a wide range of reasons from natural to behavioral. Tumor growths, missing teeth, gum disease, and thumb sucking are all known causes of diastemas. You’re not alone! Many people have gaps – even Jay Leno and Madonna. Unfortunately, these spaces can be harmful to your overall oral health. Thankfully, gaps in your teeth are easily fixed with cosmetic treatments.

 

While there are multiple treatments to correct diastemas, below are a two of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures used to fix gapped teeth.

Fixing Spaces With Dental Bonding

Do you have a small gap in your teeth? Try dental bonding. While it is not a permanent solution, it is safe, quick, and cost effective. Even though they don’t last a lifetime, they can last for many years. And, the cost is so affordable that many of our patients choose bonding over veneers for this issue.

 

Dental bonding usually takes one visit to complete. The surface of the teeth is prepared, and a tooth-like resin is applied to each tooth on either side of the gap. The bonding material is then set and hardened using an ultraviolet light. Polishing the newly bonded teeth is the last step.

Dental resin is rather porous, so it can easily pick up stains. Avoid smoking and regularly drinking colored fluids such as coffee, tea, and wine. Also, stay away from nail biting and chewing on hard objects like pens or ice. This could shorten the life of bonded resin.

Fixing Spaces With Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers, one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures, are a great solution for gaps. While veneers tend to be more costly than bonding, they are permanent, natural looking, and effective.

 

Thin porcelain veneers are customized to match your natural teeth. Everything from the color and shape is tailored to match your smile and create uniformity. The veneers are bonded to the front surface of your teeth using a resin material, which is also heated and set using a special light.

Your natural teeth are susceptible to stains, but porcelain veneers should not become discolored. Because of this, make sure to keep your natural teeth clean and healthy to prevent staining.

Have a Gap Between Your Teeth?

Spaces between teeth can lead to more gaps or over crowding of the surrounding teeth. In addition, having spaces between front teeth may keep you from smiling or chatting and laughing as much as those with a straight smile. Fixing gaps can give you that boost of confidence you need!

 

If your child has spaces between teeth when baby teeth are falling out and adult teeth are coming in, do not be alarmed. This is normal.

If you have any concerns or questions, please call us. As a top cosmetic dentist in Nashville, we have a knowledgeable and experienced dental staff to craft a customized treatment that best fits your needs. Schedule an appointment today, and try our fast and easy online form! Nervous about coming in for a routine check-up or treatment? Ask us about sedation dentistry today.