Many people choose to avoid showing their smiles when their teeth have gaps. You’re not alone. Gapped teeth (also named teeth spacing or diastema) represent a frequent dental issue, although people can solve these gaps through various treatment options.
The good news? A metal brace treatment or medical intervention is unnecessary for fixing these spaces. Clear aligners provided by SmilePath NZ enable anyone to obtain a confident straight smile through an easy and discreet approach. SmilePath NZ exists to assist you in closing all sizes of gaps while offering flexible and wallet-friendly services.
Ready to transform your smile? Let’s dive in.
What are Gaps Between Teeth
Spaces between the teeth, also known as diastema, are defined as any space or opening between two or more teeth. They can occur throughout the mouth but are most often found between the two front teeth on the upper part. Some might be slight and hardly noticeable, whilst some are more prominent.
Spaces between teeth are common among people of various age groups, from children to adults. Some people might take pride with a gap in the front teeth, while some might feel embarrassed about it or some might consider a gap to be attractive. In addition to the aesthetic considerations, the gaps have some health consequences, too. So, they need to be taken care of for proper cleaning. This blog elaborates on the meaning of spaces in the teeth, types of gaps between teeth, their general effects on health, and how they can be treated.
What Causes Gaps Between Teeth?
Several factors may lead to the appearance of gaps between the teeth. Identifying the root cause helps determine the most effective treatment. Below are some of the most common causes:
- Genetics: Genetics plays a big role in tooth and jaw shape and size. If your teeth are smaller than usual in relation to your jaw, gaps (diastema) may develop.
- Missing Teeth: Injury, decay, or loss of a single tooth may lead to a shifting of the adjacent teeth and the formation of spaces in between.
- Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease leads to bone loss, which can loosen teeth and create gaps.
- Improper Tooth Alignment: Certain bite issues like overbite or underbite can create spaces between teeth.
- Frenum Issues: The frenum is the tissue connecting the upper lip to your gums. If it is larger, it may create a gap between the front teeth.
Are Gaps in Teeth a Problem?
Gaps between teeth are often more or less cosmetic. Still, spaces in some cases create functional issues that result in the following concerns:
Difficulty Maintaining Oral Hygiene: Spaces offer more areas for the collection of food particles in between teeth, which can lead to cavities and gum diseases.
Speech Problems: Sometimes, spaces cause somebody to develop pronunciation problems that can present as a lisp.
Self-image and Confidence: Many people find that gaps between their teeth present a perception of insecurity, such that their confidence and the perception of themselves socially is impeded.
If you have been facing any of the issues discussed, it could perhaps be the right time to consider going in for treatment options.
What Research Says About Gaps in Teeth
Understanding the research can help you make informed decisions about your smile. Let’s take a closer look at what studies and experts have to say about gapped teeth.
Gaps in Teeth
Studies suggest that some orthodontic gaps, for example, the midline diastema, require professional intervention because they won't close naturally. Research by the Journal of Medical and Dental Science has shown that orthodontic treatments like clear aligners or braces, combined with minor surgical procedures like frenectomies, close the gaps with a remarkable effect on the smile. This reinforces the importance of customized dental solutions for achieving long-term aesthetic and functional results.
Overall, the research suggests that multiple factors contribute to dental gaps, including facial growth, oral habits, and bite alignment.
How to Fix Gaps Between Teeth
Fortunately, several approaches to this will get the gaps between the teeth eradicated. The right method for you will depend on how wide the gap is, what the cause is for its presence, and depends on what you feel comfortable with. Below are some common treatments for gaps between teeth:
1. Braces
Traditional braces are a practical way to close gaps between them, they're mounted to the teeth with wires, and they are gradually moved over time to correct the teeth.
2. Veneers
Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that fit into the front surface of the teeth; therefore, they beautify the appearance of the emulated gap, but they can't change the position of the teeth.
3. Dental Bonding
Bonding is the process of putting a tooth-colored resin onto the teeth to fill in space. This is a quick and relatively inexpensive form of treatment, but it is not as durable as some of the others.
4. Clear Aligners
Clear aligners from a company like SmilePath NZ are a modern, discreet, and effective way to correct gaps between teeth. The impression is used to make a series of clear plates or aligners that move teeth into position gradually without the use of any metal brackets or wires.
Why Choose Smilepath Clear Aligners
At SmilePath NZ, we understand that no two smiles are alike. That’s why we’ve designed our clear aligner system to cater to each customer’s needs. Here is why our clear aligners can be thought of as an ideal solution to close spaces between teeth:
Discreet and Comfortable
Our virtually invisible clear aligners let you straighten your teeth without anyone noticing. They are also made out of smooth and comfortable materials that will not cause abrasions to the gums or cheeks.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Using advanced 3D imaging technology, we will create a customized plan for your treatment. This ensures a close fit of your aligners to produce the best results.
Affordable and Convenient
SmilePath is an alternative to the traditional method of orthodontic treatment. SmilePath offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional orthodontic treatments. SmilePath clear aligners are easy to remove, allowing you to eat, drink, and maintain better oral hygiene.
Expert Support
A team of experienced dental professionals guides the patients throughout their treatment, from the initial consultation to the final results.
Final Thoughts
Having gaps in your teeth is a common complaint, but it doesn’t have to be a part of your smile for life. Whether to improve oral health, and self-confidence, or obtain a more aligned smile, SmilePath NZ is there for you. Clear aligners are a modern, discreet, and affordable treatment to close gaps and achieve that smile you've always dreamed of. With a personalized treatment plan, expert support, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, SmilePath NZ will be with you every step of your journey toward smile transformation.
FAQs
Clear aligners are effective in treating many orthodontic issues, including gaps between teeth, crowded teeth, overbite, and underbite. However, some complex cases may require traditional braces or other orthodontic treatment options.
Treatment times can vary depending on the severity of your orthodontic issues, but most people see results within 6-18 months. It's important to wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time each day to ensure the best results.
Citations:
Diastema. (2024, July 25). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23477-diastema
Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). Teeth - gapped teeth. Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/teeth-gapped-teeth
Leonard, J. (2023, September 24). What is a diastema? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diastem
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