If you have a gap between your two front teeth, you have what a dentist might call a diastema. Some patients find their diastema endearing, while others are bothered by the empty void in their smile. For those who’d like a more consistent look, there are plenty of cosmetic and restorative solutions to choose from, so don’t worry – your dentist can help! If you do mind the gap, keep reading.
What Causes Diastema?
Now that you know what a diastema is, you’re probably wondering what exactly causes it. How did you develop this very front-facing gap between your teeth? The answer isn’t exactly simple. Many different things can make your pearly whites appear separated, such as:
- Genetics – genes play a role in the size and shape of your teeth, as well as how they emerge from your gumline.
- Lip ties – an overly thick band of tissue that can “tie down” your lip and impact your oral development.
- Abnormal swallowing – pressing your tongue against the front of your teeth while you swallow can cause a gap to form over time.
- Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) – gum disease bacteria can eventually spread to attack your jawbone, in which case your dental structure might shift.
How Can I Narrow the Gap?
Narrowing your diastema and achieving a more seamless smile will depend on what your dentist finds during an oral exam.
For example, if the cause of your front-toothed gap has to do with the position of your teeth or your oral structure, Invisalign or CandidPro might be the best treatment method. If the problem has more to do with the size and shape of your pearly whites, veneers or dental bonding will be better able to conceal the empty space. For cases of periodontitis, your dentist will include gum disease therapy as part of your treatment plan.
There are many reasons you might have a diastema, and just as many (if not more) ways to close the gap. Finding the right treatment solution for you is simply a matter of picking up the phone and calling your dentist!
About the Practice
Dr. Tristan J. Parry and Dr. Dillon Atwood are your highly experienced dental team in Summerfield. As a board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologist, Dr. Atwood can make sure you’re comfortable during your treatment, and thanks to hundreds of hours of advanced training, Dr. Parry is skilled at providing patients with beautiful dental cosmetics. If you mind the gap between your two front teeth, call Dr. Parry and Dr. Atwood’s office at 336-728-6153 and schedule your consultation today.