Tooth Diastema
Ever worry about whether your teeth are spaced out and what that gap means? The dental term for these gaps between your teeth is called tooth diastema. Not to worry, though! There is nothing to be medically concerned about when it comes to tooth diastema. It is very common and can be triggered by a number of reasons:
-Tooth & Jaw Misalignment
The alignment of your teeth is determined by the size of your teeth and your jaw. When they don’t match, overcrowding and/or spacing can occur. Usually, when your teeth are too small for your jawline, they space out. On the other hand, when your teeth are too big for your jawline they become crowded. If you’re missing teeth, overtime you can develop alignment issues.
-Periodontal Disease & Labial Frenum
Another cause is periodontal disease. If you don’t care for your gums, it can affect your jawbone and cause loose teeth. When teeth are loose, they can become spaced. Also, your labial frenum (the tissue that connects your upper lip to the gum between your two front teeth) can cause tooth disruption and ultimately lead to teeth gapping.
-Bad Tooth Habits
Bad habits can also affect the spacing between your teeth. For example, if babies use a pacifier too long, this can cause teeth shifting. Even tongue thrusting can form a gap in the middle of your two front teeth over time!
-Treatment
Not everyone with tooth diastema chooses to correct the condition, but there are ways to fix it:
Dental Restorations: Dental crowns, veneers, and implants can fix the gaping in-between your teeth. If you are missing teeth, a dental implant will help correct the issue and have cosmetically pleasing result. Moreover, dental crowns and veneers can cap over small teeth and close gaps that may be present.
Invisalign and Braces: Using braces or Invisalign can help you achieve a straighter smile and close gaps between your teeth over time.
At The NJ Center for Laser and Cosmetic Dentistry, we love seeing our patients smile! Call us at 973-244-2424 or book an appointment with us if you would like to discuss possible tooth diastema gap-closing procedures.