Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: five minutes.
The most common type of tooth gap is the midline diastema, which is a gap between the front teeth.
While many people embrace this look, others are self-conscious about it. If you have a gap between your front teeth, or gaps anywhere in your smile, there are several treatment options available to close the gaps.
In this blog post, we will break down the most common treatments for gaps between teeth so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Gaps Between Teeth
- Treatment Options to Fill Gaps Between Teeth
- Habits That Contribute to Gaps
- When to Seek Professional Help
- Fill the Gap: Book Your Appointment with Our Dentist in San Francisco
Key Takeaway
There are several ways to fix gaps between teeth. Treatments like cosmetic bonding, veneers, clear aligners such as ClearCorrect, and dental implants can help you achieve a more balanced smile.
Understanding Gaps Between Teeth
Gaps in your teeth, also known as diastema, can form between any of your teeth.
While they can occur anywhere in your mouth, gaps between the front teeth are the most common.
Types of Gaps Between Teeth
There are different types of gaps you may have:
- Midline diastema: The gap between your two upper front teeth.
- Gaps between teeth on the sides: These can occur in the upper or lower arches.
- Spaces between the back teeth: Gaps in the back teeth can be caused by missing teeth or other dental conditions.
What Causes Gaps Between Teeth?
Some of the common reasons for gaps between your teeth include:
- Genetics: Some people are genetically prone to diastema and the condition can sometimes run in families.
- Undersized teeth: Small teeth may cause gaps as they do not fill the space between your gums fully.
- Gum disease: Infections in the gums can cause teeth to shift and create gaps.
- Thumb sucking: If you were a thumb sucker as a child, this can affect the positioning of your teeth.
- Frenulum: An oversized frenulum (the piece of tissue connecting your lip to your gums) can cause a gap between your upper front teeth. This is called a labial frenum, and a frenectomy may be required to address it.
Treatment Options to Fill Gaps Between Teeth
If you are looking to fill a gap between your teeth, there are several effective treatment options to consider.
Each of these options has its benefits, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs.
1. Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding is a quick and effective solution to fill small gaps.
It involves using tooth-colored resin to fill the space and bond to the surface of your teeth. This is an excellent option for smaller gaps and can often be completed in a single visit to your dentist.
- Benefits:
- Quick procedure
- No need for anesthesia
- Affordable compared to other treatments
- Natural appearance
- How it works:
- Your dentist will apply a bonding material to the gap
- The material is shaped and hardened using a special light
- It blends seamlessly with your natural tooth color
2. Veneers (Porcelain or Composite)
Veneers are thin shells of material placed over the front surface of your teeth to enhance their appearance.
Porcelain veneers are durable and provide a natural look, while composite veneers are more affordable and can be applied in one visit.
- Benefits:
- Permanent solution for larger gaps
- Durable and stain-resistant
- Customizable to match your natural tooth color
- How it works:
- Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth.
- Veneers are crafted and then bonded to the front of your teeth.
🔗 Learn more about Teeth Bonding vs. Veneers: Which Is the Right Choice for Your Smile?
3. Orthodontic Treatments (ClearCorrect or Braces)
If the gap is caused by misalignment or crooked teeth, orthodontic treatment might be the solution.
Clear aligners, like ClearCorrect, offer a discreet way to gradually move your teeth into proper alignment. Traditional braces are another option for more significant misalignment.
- Benefits:
- Long-term solution for crooked or misaligned teeth
- Clear aligners are virtually invisible and comfortable
- Traditional braces work for more complex cases
- How it works:
- Aligners are custom-made and changed every week until your teeth are straight.
- Braces are adjusted regularly to shift the teeth.
4. Dental Implants
If you have a missing tooth that creates a large gap, dental implants may be an excellent option.
Dental implants replace the entire tooth, including the root, and are designed to function like a natural tooth. The procedure involves placing a titanium post into your jawbone, which serves as the tooth root.
- Benefits:
- Permanent and natural-looking solution
- Prevents bone loss in the jaw
- Restores the function of the missing tooth
- How it works:
- The titanium post is surgically inserted into your jaw.
- After healing, a crown will be attached to the post.
5. Dental Crowns
If a tooth is damaged or has a gap due to decay, a dental crown can be placed over the tooth. Crowns look and feel like your natural tooth. They are made to fit over the natural tooth, like a cap.
- Benefits:
- Restores the shape and function of the tooth
- Offers a durable and long-lasting solution
- Can be used to fill larger gaps caused by damaged teeth
- How it works:
- Your dentist will take an impression of your tooth.
- Your tooth will be filled down and the crown will be placed over the tooth.
Habits That Contribute to Gaps
If you want to avoid developing gaps or worsening existing ones, it is important to practice good oral hygiene and avoid certain habits.
- Brushing and flossing: Proper oral care prevents gum disease, which can cause teeth to shift and create gaps.
- Avoid thumb sucking: Thumb sucking can cause teeth to shift, leading to gaps.
- Wear a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth, it may cause them to shift, creating gaps.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can lead to gum disease, which may contribute to gaps between teeth.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you notice any of the following, it is time to consult a cosmetic dentist for a treatment plan:
- Your teeth are shifting, causing a noticeable gap.
- The gap is affecting your self-confidence.
- You have gum disease, which can cause teeth to move.
- You have trouble chewing or speaking due to gaps in your teeth.
Fill the Gap: Book Your Appointment with Our Dentist in San Francisco
If you are ready to “close the gap” and enjoy a more confident smile, we are here to help.
Whether you choose cosmetic bonding, veneers, or another treatment option, we offer personalized solutions tailored to your needs.
To book an appointment in our dentist office in San Francisco, CA, call (415) 986-4534 or complete our online inquiry form. We are located at 490 Post St. Suite 520. San Francisco, CA.