Gapped Teeth
Get the perfect smile!
Your one-stop dental practice for gentle and convenient cosmetic dental treatments. Call us today for a consultation!
Gapped Teeth
Get the perfect smile!
Your one-stop dental practice for gentle and convenient cosmetic dental treatments.
What are gapped teeth?
Having gapped teeth is a dental condition where there are spaces between your teeth. The terms “diastema” (one gap) or “diastemata” (multiple gaps) are used by dental professionals to describe spaces between the teeth. Gaps may appear in any place of your mouth, but they are most common between the upper two front teeth known as the incisors.
Common causes of gapped teeth
Gaps can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Inadequate dental care
- Thumb sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Dental conditions such as periodontal disease or tooth decay
- Size of teeth, relative to the size of the jawbone
- Excessively large tongue
- Missing teeth
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Age
Problems linked to gapped teeth
Gaps in teeth can cause problems, including:
- Changes in bite
- Tooth sensitivity
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- A cosmetic concern
Have you noticed a gap between your teeth? Is food getting stuck in between your gaps?
It’s important to seek treatment for gapped teeth as soon as possible to prevent any future damage. Schedule a consultation to have a chat with one of our friendly team members. We will evaluate your condition and determine the best treatment plan for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes gaps?
Several factors can contribute to gaps in teeth, including:
- Inadequate dental care
- Thumb sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Teeth clenching and grinding
- Dental conditions such as periodontal disease or tooth decay
- Size of teeth, relative to the size of the jawbone
- Excessively large tongue
- Missing teeth
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Ageing
Is it possible to inherit gaps?
Yes, it is possible to inherit gaps in teeth from your parents. This is because the size and shape of your jawbone are determined by genetics. Additionally, certain dental conditions, such as periodontal disease, can also be passed down from generation to generation.
What are the risks of not treating gaps?
If left untreated, gaps in teeth can sometimes cause changes in bite, tooth sensitivity, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, cosmetic concerns may arise as the spaces between your teeth become more visible.
Is it necessary to have my teeth fixed if there are gaps?
Gaps in teeth are not always a cosmetic concern. However, if it is something that you are self-conscious about or if it is causing problems with your bite, then you may want to consider treatment.
What treatments are available?
The best way to treat gaps in teeth is to visit your dentist or orthodontist. They will be able to assess the severity of your condition and recommend the best course of treatment.
Treatment options for gaps in teeth include:
- Dental bonding
- Tooth contouring
- Veneers
- Crowns
- Invisalign/clear aligners or traditional braces
Can gaps in teeth be prevented?
Yes, you can take steps to prevent gaps in teeth from developing or getting worse. These include:
- Avoiding thumb sucking
- Wearing an occlusal splint/night guard at night if you grind your teeth
- Practising good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
