Orthodontic Treatment for Gapped Teeth![]() The fact is that having gaps between your teeth is not just a cosmetic concern. It can also cause issues with bite, leading to discomfort and damage to your teeth. It can also make it harder to keep your teeth clean, which may lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If you have gapped teeth, then we here at Dr. Tim Dumore & Team can help improve your smile with the aid of orthodontic treatment. What Causes Gapped Teeth During Tooth Eruption?Gapped teeth are also known as a diastema. While gaps between your teeth are typically associated with your two front teeth, gaps can appear between any of your teeth. When a gap occurs between your teeth, this is generally due to a small amount of connective tissue that is keeping them apart. This tissue is known as a fraenula, and its role is to help with your dental alignment. Other causes of gapped teeth can include a poor swallowing reflex, which can lead to spaces between your teeth. Behaviors can also cause gaps in the teeth, such as sucking a thumb. This can push against your teeth, causing them to spread out and draw them forward. Genetics are often to blame, too, which can lead to poor bite alignment. In some cases, if your teeth are overcrowded, that can lead to gaps and spaces between them. Losing one or more teeth can also lead to gaps. Not only does the vacated spot leave a gap, but your remaining teeth may start to drift in response to the lost tooth. Treating Diastema with OrthodonticsIf you have gapped teeth, then you may be able to get orthodontic treatment to help address it. One way we may address your diastema is to remove the fraenula, a procedure called a frenectomy. We may also recommend dental veneers or bonding to help minimize the appearance of the gaps and spaces on your visible front teeth. Crowns can also help treat them, especially if your diastema is caused by teeth that are too small in size and are causing bite and alignment issues. In some cases, we may also recommend removable dental appliances like clear aligners. This can help reposition your teeth and close the gaps between them. Other patients may benefit from traditional dental braces, which can apply constant pressure to your teeth to help realign them. A retainer can help maintain the results of the clear dental aligners, which can help ensure that your gaps and spaces do not return. Orthodontic treatment can help improve both the appearance and the function of your teeth, allowing you to have a smile that is free from unsightly and potentially harmful gaps and spaces. To learn more about how orthodontic treatment can help treat gapped teeth, or to set up an appointment with us here at Dr. Tim Dumore & Team, please give us a call today at 204-832-3910! |