Filling the Gap: How Dentists Treat Gapped Teeth
At the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute, we believe in restoring the health and the beauty of smiles. Patients in and around Troy know that we offer advanced cosmetic dentistry to enhance smiles as well as state-of-the-art restorative procedures to improve dental health.
Gaps between teeth can be a serious issue, even if the gaps are small. Let's consider the problems associated with tooth gaps and the treatment options that may be considered.
The Cosmetic Flaws Caused by Tooth Gaps
When you have gaps between you teeth, this can lead you to feel self-conscious. This is particularly true if the gap is between your front teeth, or if the gap is the result of the loss of a tooth. With tooth gaps in place, you may wind up becoming self-conscious about laughing, smiling, and speaking, even around people that you have known for many years.
The Dental Health Issues Caused by Tooth Gaps
In addition to the aesthetic problems associated with tooth gaps, there are also dental health concerns to keep in mind. For instance, tooth gaps can be a cause of dental misalignment, which can make it painful to bite and chew. Dental misalignment also increases the risk of teeth grinding (bruxism) and TMJ disorders. When the gap is part of tooth loss, there's an issue of gum recession and bone loss in the area of the gap, both of which can lead to serious dental health problems.
Dental Bonding for Minor Tooth Gaps
When you have a very small gap between your teeth, the best option for addressing the small space is dental bonding. Dental bonding involves the use of a tooth-colored resin that is painted directly onto the surface of your teeth. This tooth-colored resin builds out the tooth to help fill tiny gaps and mask imperfections from view.
Porcelain Veneers for Small Spacing Issues
When the gap is too large to be treated with dental bonding but is still predominantly an aesthetic issue, the best option to consider is the use of porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that are adhered to the fronts of the teeth. These semi-transluscent shells mask imperfections from view, making your teeth look perfect and pristine in the process.
Porcelain veneers can also be used to address major stains, uneven teeth, size differences, and other cosmetic issues.
Orthodontic Care for Major Misalignment Problems
When you have major spacing issues that affect your smile, your best option for treatment is orthodontic care. Whether traditional braces are used or an alternative to braces are considered, this form of treatment will involve the careful application of pressure and tension to shift the teeth into a better position.
Solutions for Gaps Caused by Missing Teeth
For tooth loss that results in gaps between your teeth, there are many restorative options to keep in mind. This includes the use of dental bridges or even a partial denture. For a single missing tooth, you may even be eligible to get a dental crown supported by a dental implant. During your consultation, you'll be able to learn more about all of your options for replacing missing teeth.
Schedule a Consultation at the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute
For more information about treating tooth gaps and helping you smile look its very best, be sure to contact our advanced aesthetic dentistry practice today. The team at the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve excellent dental health.
