A gap between your teeth, known as a diastema, can be a defining feature for some, but a source of self-consciousness for others. Approximately 25 percent of Americans have a diastema. If you are among those who dislike yours, closing it may be easier than you think.
Board-certified dentist Niyati Sheth, DDS, of Oasis Family Dental in Maywood, New Jersey, has helped countless patients discreetly and comfortably achieve a more balanced smile with clear aligners.
Here’s what she wants you to know about diastema and how to remedy it.
Gaps can form for various reasons, and multiple factors can be involved.
Gapped teeth are often a hereditary condition. It can also be a matter of a mismatch between the size of your jawbone and the size of your teeth. In children, gaps are common and often close on their own as permanent teeth emerge.
A tooth that is too small, or one that is missing entirely, can cause neighboring teeth to shift, creating gaps. Similarly, an oversized labial frenum — the tissue that connects your upper lip to your gums — can make a space between the two front teeth.
Certain habits can contribute to the formation of gaps over time. Thumb sucking, for instance, can cause the front teeth to move forward. Incorrect swallowing reflexes, known as tongue thrusting, where the tongue pushes against the front teeth, can also create spaces. In some cases, advanced gum disease can weaken the bone, causing teeth to become loose and shift.
Clear aligners offer a discreet way to fix gapped teeth. At Oasis Family Dental, Dr. Sheth utilizes advanced 3D scanning technology to create a precise and customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
The treatment involves wearing a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth. These aligners apply gentle, controlled pressure to move your teeth gradually into their desired position. You wear each set of aligners for about a week, for at least 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.
Patients love clear aligners for many reasons. They are nearly invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without a mouthful of metal. They’re made of smooth plastic, so unlike metal braces, they won’t irritate your cheeks and gums.
Additionally, because they are removable, you can maintain your regular oral hygiene routine and continue to enjoy all your favorite foods.
Clear aligners are highly effective for closing small to moderate gaps. However, for large gaps or more complex orthodontic issues, other treatments, such as traditional braces, might be necessary.
To learn if clear aligners can help you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sheth. Contact Oasis Family Dental in Maywood, New Jersey, by calling the office or using our online booking feature to make an appointment today.
