Causes of Spaced Teeth
Spaced teeth, or gaps between the teeth, can occur for various reasons, both genetic and environmental. Some of the main factors include:
Genetics:
Just as the colour of our eyes or the shape of our nose can be passed down from our parents, the crowding or spacing of our teeth can also be hereditary. If spaced teeth are common in your family, you might observe a similar dental trait.
Thumb-Sucking:
Thumb-sucking or extended use of dummies into teeth-development ages can sometimes lead to teeth pushing forward and gaps.
Missing Teeth:
If a tooth is missing or is smaller in size, it can lead to spaces between the surrounding teeth due to the extra available room.
Mismatched Jaw and Teeth Size:
Sometimes, people might have a larger jawbone compared to the size of their teeth, which can create extra spacing.
Tongue Thrusting:
Some individuals push their tongue against their front teeth when swallowing or speaking, which over time can force the teeth to move outward, leading to gaps.
Gum Disease:
Advanced stages of gum disease can result in tooth and bone loss, causing shifts in the positioning of the teeth and subsequent spacing.
It’s essential to identify the underlying cause of spaced teeth to provide the most effective treatment. Regular dental check-ups with Sunshine Boulevard Dental can help diagnose and address such issues promptly, ensuring that you maintain the best possible oral health and confidence in your smile.
Let’s Explore the Treatments for Spaced Teeth
The presence of gaps or spaces between the teeth can sometimes be a cause for concern. At Sunshine Boulevard Dental, we offer a range of treatments suited for varying degrees of spacing. Our experienced team will always have a dedicated consultation with you to understand your concerns and provide solutions tailored to your individual needs.
Orthodontic Treatment:
One of the most popular treatments, braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign) can gradually shift the teeth to close the gaps. This orthodontic treatment not only addresses spacing but can also correct other alignment issues.
Dental Bonding:
This is a quicker solution where a tooth-coloured resin material is applied to the teeth to fill in the gaps. It’s a minimally invasive method and can be completed in just one visit.
Veneers:
These are thin shells, often made of porcelain, that are custom-made to cover the front surface of teeth. Dental veneers can effectively mask gaps, providing an instant aesthetic boost to your smile.
Dental Bridges:
If the spacing is due to missing teeth, a dental bridge might be the answer. Bridges are designed to “bridge” the gap using artificial teeth, using restorative dentistry to revive functionality and appearance.
Dental Implants:
Another restorative dental treatment, and treatment for missing teeth, dental implants act as a replacement for the tooth root and can be paired with a crown to fill in the gap left by a missing tooth.
Palatal Expanders:
For those with a narrow upper jaw causing spacing, a palatal expander can be used to widen the jaw, which can potentially help in closing gaps between teeth
Apart from these treatments, we also offer guidance and preventive measures to ensure the longevity of your dental health and the treatments applied.
Seeking timely treatment for spaced teeth can improve oral hygiene, boost confidence, and provide aesthetic benefits. Regular dental check-ups at Sunshine Boulevard Dental not only address the gaps early but also assist in maintaining overall oral health and preventing potential dental concerns.
