If you have a gap between your two front teeth, you might be a little self-conscious. After all, if you’re easily noticing it in the bathroom mirror every day, chances are everyone else might be noticing it too. Even though it’s common and relatively harmless, it might be something you’d like to have addressed. Keep reading below to learn more about what causes this issue and how your dentist can easily remedy it to give you a confidence-inspiring smile!
What Causes a Gap Between the Front Teeth?
A gap between the front teeth is medically known as a diastema. Technically, this can occur between any two teeth, but it’s most noticeable with the two front upper teeth. Diastemas have several possible causes, but a few of the most common ones include:
- Missing, misshaped, or undersized teeth
- An oversized labial frenum (the tissue extending from the upper lip to the gum above the upper front teeth)
- Untreated gum disease that has resulted in dental drift
- Poor oral habits such as chronically poor oral hygiene, smoking, using chewing tobacco, or biting into hard objects
Can My Dentist Close This Space?
The good news is that your dentist can easily correct your diastema and get your smile back to looking its absolute best! Treatment is not usually necessary for a diastema for medical reasons, and the issue is rarely painful; however, if a person dislikes the appearance of their smile, it is possible to close or narrow the gap. Sometimes, the issue can resolve itself entirely on its own; for instance, in children, the space often closes when the permanent teeth erupt.
Orthodontics is one go-to answer for the issue. If the gap exists due to missing teeth, more complex solutions such as a bridge or denture might be required. And if it’s due to an oversized labial frenum, surgery may be a viable route. But veneers are perhaps the most utilized option; these thin coverings can be shaped and color-matched to restore a tooth’s natural appearance. In the case of a diastema, the veneers can be used to essentially cover the space.
The bottom line is that while diastemas might be noticeable and undesirable, they’re quite easily correctable with the help of your trusted dentist.
About the Practice
The talented team at Camenzuli Dental Excellence has proudly served patients and families in the Uptown New Orleans area for several years under the leadership of Dr. Robert A. Camenzuli. They’re excited to offer a wide range of treatment options, including various solutions for addressing diastemas and other similar issues. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for yourself or someone you know, you can contact the practice online or by phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (504) 584-4225.