What Causes Gaps in Teeth?

Many people find the gap between the front teeth cute and attractive. In many cultures, it is said to be a sign of beauty, luck, and intelligence. In the dentistry world, however, gaps in teeth are known as a diastema. Moreover, these spaces can be a sign of an underlying issue. Carry on reading the causes and treatments for gaps in teeth.

Gaps aren’t limited to one cause or age, as children and adults can notice them for different reasons. The causes include these factors:

Size of Teeth & Jawbone
Gaps usually form when the teeth are small for the jawbone. This can create spaces between one’s teeth. Diastema, in many cases, runs in the family and occurs due to genetics.
Habits & Swallowing Reflexes
Children sucking their teeth could form spaces. This is because the sucking motion exerts pressure on the front teeth and pulls them forward. Furthermore, incorrect swallowing reflexes can also result in gapped teeth. Our tongue should be at the roof of the mouth when swallowing. However, some children and adults position it against the front teeth. Also known as tongue thrust, this seemingly harmless reflex can cause a separation between our teeth.
Gum Disease
Diastema, or the gaps in teeth, can also indicate more severe conditions like gum disease. Infections cause inflammation in your gums, which could damage them. Moreover, it affects the tissues supporting the teeth, leading to tooth loss. You’ll notice gaps between your teeth due to this condition.

Teeth Gap Treatment

You can get rid of gaps between teeth, and there are multiple options available. Usually, dentists use these methods to close the gap between your teeth:

1. Braces
  If the gaps between your teeth are bigger, you might need braces. This is especially true in case you experience teeth alignment issues, bite problems and other problems. Plus, there are different types of braces available.Braces will show effective results if the shape, size, and color of your teeth are acceptable. If not, additional cosmetic treatments, like veneers, might be required.
2. Dental Bonding
  Your dentist might suggest direct resin Your dentist might suggest direct resinto fill the gaps in your teeth. This is a cost-effective option that helps fix your smile, depending on your teeth.
3. Veneers
  Your dentist might suggest veneers to close the gaps in your teeth. They are two types:
  - Porcelain Veneers: your teeth look excellent after using this cosmetic dentistry option. However, they cost more and might need more preparation time than composite veneers. Still, they’re strong for bite loads and blend in perfectly with your natural teeth.
  - Composite Veneers: For small gaps in teeth, around 1 to 3 mm, composite veneers are a great choice. The results are quite effective, as veneers mask most of your tooth defects. In addition, they require minimal tooth preparation and cost less than porcelain veneers.

The Closing Word

The gaps in your teeth can form due to many reasons. Fortunately, there are multiple treatment options available. You should

Our Smile 4ever Dentistry team is available to help treat your dental health issues. You can contact us at (281) 213-5668.

Gaps in Teeth — What Causes Them & What to Do?