There are many people who have a gap between their two front teeth. It’s a trait that some absolutely adore while others may view it as a flaw. You might be a part of the group that’s self-conscious about it, but is there a way you can close that gap? Thankfully, your dentist is here to help with cosmetic dental treatments. Here’s all you need to know about that space between your teeth and what you can do to get a confident smile.
Are Diastemas Harmful to My Oral Health?
A gap between dental structures is called a diastema. It’s often harmless and isn’t inherently bad for you. It can be caused by several things, such as:
- Undersized or missing teeth
- Genetics
- Gum overgrowth or periodontal disease
- Thumb-sucking
- Tongue thrusting
While this trait doesn’t usually have negative consequences, you may be at a higher risk of decay or infection. That’s because more of the structure is exposed, so be sure you’re diligent with brushing! Depending on how wide the space is, you might also have trouble eating or speaking comfortably.
How Can My Dentist Fix My Diastema?
Regardless, diastemas can make you want to hide your smile. Thankfully, there are several ways you can get the gorgeous grin you love. These are some popular cosmetic treatments you can consider:
- Invisalign is a reliable orthodontic service that straightens your smile with thin, plastic trays. You will wear them for 22 hours every day, so they apply pressure to slowly shift your teeth into their desired positions. In the end, it’ll close gaps and give you a more proportional look.
- Direct bonding uses tooth-colored composite resin to cover flaws like stubborn stains, chips, and even minor diastemas. It can be done in a single visit, giving you the results you want right away.
- Tooth replacements can also be considered if the space is caused by missing teeth. A bridge or implant can restore the structure and give you back a confident smile that helps you regain your bite as well.
In the end, while you may feel self-conscious about a gap in your front teeth, there are reliable ways you can fix it. By talking to your dentist about your goals, you can find out which treatment works best for you and your situation; that way, you can take the next step toward having a confident smile you deserve.
About the Practice
At Brown & Nawrocki Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Andrew Nawrocki and Dr. Kimberly Dennis. We are dedicated to helping the Ormond Beach community get the grins they dreamed of with reliable cosmetic, restorative, and orthodontic services. By using state-of-the-art technology, you can even preview your new smile before committing, so you can make a more informed decision. If you want your diastema fixed, schedule an appointment or call our office at (386) 677-1046.