Gap teeth, medically known as diastema, refer to the spaces between teeth and are typically most noticeable between the two upper front teeth. Some may like the unique smile that gap teeth provide them, and others may seek solutions to solve it. Understanding what causes gaps in teeth and the available solutions can help you make an informed decision.
Diastema, or gap in teeth, is commonly caused by a size mismatch between the teeth and jawbone. When the teeth are too small for the jaw, gaps naturally occur. This condition is often hereditary so if your parents or grandparents had gap teeth, you might develop them too. Another cause is an enlarged labial frenulum—the tissue connecting the upper lip to the gums. If the tissue is overly large, it can continuously push the front teeth apart. This tissue is generally found in children and is expected to resolve over time. However, if it doesn’t resolve it may require surgical intervention.
Some habits may also cause this condition. For instance, thumb sucking and tongue thrusting may cause gap teeth. Thumb sucking, particularly when it continues beyond the early years, puts pressure on the front teeth and pushes them forward. This may result in spaces between teeth. Tongue thrusting, which means the tongue presses against the teeth during swallowing, may cause teeth to move out of alignment over time, leading to diastema.
Another significant cause of gap teeth is gum disease. Gingivitis or periodontitis causes inflammation in the gums and the bone starts to deteriorate. As the bone weakens the teeth can shift and create gaps. Gum disease needs an immediate intervention as it can cause permanent damage to teeth and gums. So, diastema can be a result of different causes and underlying the root cause is crucial for a dentist to create a treatment plan that suits your needs. A thorough consultation with a dentist is necessary for this purpose as self-diagnosing is almost impossible for this condition.
When it comes to diastema treatment, there are various approaches to meet the patient's needs and preferences by detecting the underlying reason for the gap teeth. One of the most widely known treatments for gap teeth is orthodontic treatment. This method is particularly effective for closing gaps caused by misaligned teeth or an incorrect bite. Conventional braces apply continuous pressure to the teeth and gradually move them into the desired position to close the gaps. There are also some modern alternatives like clear aligners, such as Invisalign, which offer a more discreet option for those who prefer not to have metal braces.
For patients seeking a quicker solution than braces or Invisalign, dental bonding is a common option for diastema treatment. This procedure is minimally invasive and involves the application of a tooth-colored resin to the surface of the teeth filling the gap teeth. However, this resin is not as strong as natural tooth so it can require touch-ups or replacement over time.
Surgical correction may also be necessary in some cases especially when the gap is caused by an enlarged labial frenulum. A minor surgical procedure called frenectomy helps to remove or reduce this tissue. This operation typically follows orthodontic treatment to ensure that it does not reopen.
Another cosmetic solution for diastema treatment is dental veneers. Dental veneers are custom-made thin shells that fit over the front surface of the teeth. They are especially effective for larger gap teeth or when the patient also wants to correct the shape, size, or color of their teeth. Veneers are durable and aesthetically pleasing. They can last for many years with proper care. To get dental veneers, patients typically need two sessions: the first one is to prepare the teeth and take impressions and the second one is to fit them into the teeth. Veneers might be more costly than dental bonding but they offer a more durable solution.
When considering treating the gap teeth, it is essential to select the right clinic with experienced dentists who can offer the best solution for your case. For those looking to enhance their smile by closing the gaps between their teeth, getting dental veneers in Turkey become popular recently. Smile Center stands out among Turkey's well-known dental clinics, with its expert team, cutting-edge facilities, and commitment to patient happiness. If you’re dealing with gap teeth, Smile Center provides a range of customized treatments, with dental veneers being one of the most effective solutions.
Smile Center offers high-quality veneers that both improve the appearance and provide durability to ensure your smile remains bright for many years. Also, the cost is significantly lower than in many European countries and the USA, without compromising on quality. Turkey's competitive pricing is one of the main reasons why so many patients from around the world choose to have their dental work done in the country. And the affordability stems from:
the exchange rate differences,
high competition between numerous clinics,
government support for medical tourism.
Although it is surprisingly affordable, the quality of the treatment and the dentist's skills are unquestionable. At Smile Center, you can expect transparent pricing with no hidden fees, so that you can plan your treatment and manage your budget without any concern. Please do not hesitate to reach out to one of our medical experts!
Medical News Today. (n.d.). Diastema: Causes, treatment, and prevention.
Muhamad, Abu-Hussein. (2021). The midline diastema: a review of its etiology and treatment.
Yildiz, Esra & Yucel, Taner & Erdemir, Ugur & Germeç Çakan, Derya & Sayinsu, Korkmaz. (2016). Definition and Causes of Diastema. 10.1007/978-3-319-24361-0_2.
