Why You Have a Gap in Your Teeth

A diastema is a gap or space between two teeth, typically the upper front teeth. It is a common orthodontic issue that can affect both children and adults. In this article, we will delve into the causes, effects, and treatment options through Invisalign in Morrisville, NC for diastema, as well as explore the impact it can have on oral health and self-confidence.

Causes of diastema

Some of the most common causes of diastema include:

• Genetic predisposition: Diastema can be inherited from one’s parents.

• Misaligned teeth: Teeth that are not properly aligned can create gaps.

• Missing teeth: Loss of teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift, creating gaps.

• Gum disease: Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss and gaps.

• Habits: Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or other oral habits can push teeth apart.

• Overcrowding: Teeth that are overcrowded can become pushed apart, creating gaps.

• Jaw alignment: A misaligned jaw can cause teeth to shift and create gaps.

• Periodontal disease: Gum disease can cause teeth to become loose and create gaps.

• Tooth size discrepancy: Teeth that are disproportionately small or large can create gaps.

• Aging: As we age, our teeth can shift and create gaps.

Effects of diastema

Some of the effects include:

Aesthetic effects:

• Unattractive smile: Gaps between teeth can affect the appearance of one’s smile.
• Low self-confidence: Diastema can impact self-esteem and confidence in one’s smile.
• Difficulty smiling: Large gaps can make it difficult to smile naturally.

Functional effects:

• Food trapping: Food particles can get stuck in the gap, leading to oral hygiene issues.
• Speech difficulties: Large gaps can affect pronunciation and speech clarity.
• Increased risk of tooth decay: Trapped food particles can lead to tooth decay and cavities.
• Gum disease: Food particles and plaque can accumulate in the gap, leading to gum disease.
• Tooth wear: Teeth can wear down unevenly due to the gap, leading to bite issues.
• Bite problems: Diastema can affect the alignment of the bite, leading to issues with chewing and jaw function.
• Increased risk of tooth loss: Advanced gum disease and tooth decay can lead to tooth loss.
• Difficulty chewing: Large gaps can make it difficult to chew food properly.
• Oral hygiene challenges: Diastema can make it difficult to clean between teeth, leading to oral hygiene issues.
• Impact on overall oral health: Diastema can have a ripple effect on overall oral health, leading to a range of issues.

Treatment for diastema 

Treatment for diastema, or gaps between teeth, depends on the severity and cause of the gap. Here are some common treatment options:

• Orthodontic treatment: Braces or Invisalign can be used to close gaps by moving teeth into proper alignment.

• Dental bonding: A tooth-colored resin is applied to fill small gaps.

• Veneers: Porcelain veneers are placed over teeth to close gaps and improve appearance.

• Dental implants: Implants are used to replace missing teeth and close gaps.

• Dental crowns: Crowns are placed over teeth to cover gaps and improve appearance.

• Teeth contouring: Teeth are reshaped to close small gaps.

• Retainers: Customized retainers can be used to close small gaps and maintain tooth alignment.

• Invisalign First: A clear aligner system for children to address gaps and alignment issues early on.

• Space maintainers: For children, space maintainers can be used to hold space for a missing tooth until a permanent tooth erupts.

• Composite resin: A tooth-colored resin is used to fill gaps and improve appearance.