Are spaces between my teeth bad?
Gaps in the teeth occur when there are spaces between at least two teeth. In some cases the patient may have a single gap or a diastema. While other patients may have numerous gaps. Gaps are commonly treated using various orthodontic treatments or a combination of prosthetic and orthodontic work. Braces or Invisalign treatment overseen by a qualitied orthodontist can help to close the gaps, treat the issue, and create a healthy smile for the patient.
Gaps are defined as large spaces between at least two teeth. Gaps may be caused by the teeth not growing in correctly, an overgrowth of tissue, or by being pushed out of alignment.
In some cases, the patient just has one gap. This gap is often between the front teeth in the upper jaw and is called a diastema. Others patients may have multiple gaps in their mouth that span across several teeth. In addition to impacting a patient’s smile and appearance, gaps can have negative consequences for the teeth, mouth, and overall health. Patients may also be embarrassed or dissatisfied with their smile and have lower confidence.
Some external factors can also create gaps. This can include habits such as sucking the thumb or tongue-thrusting, which slowly pushes the teeth out of alignment and causes a gap. Gaps can also be the result of losing a tooth and the adjacent teeth moving into the new hole.
Fortunately, gaps between teeth can typically be corrected regardless of the cause. In some cases, the patient may need both prosthetic and orthodontic intervention to correct the issues. And other cases, the patient may simply require an orthodontic treatment. Braces and Invisalign, which are both overseen by an orthodontist, are effective treatments for closing a gap.
Gaps are usually apparent by looking in the mirror. Smiles which are properly-aligned should not contain any gaps. Gaps can also be quite small and subtle. When gaps are located in the back of the mouth, they may not even be visible. In some cases, an apparent gap may actually be a tooth which is improperly-rotated.
Flossing the teeth is a good way to determine if there are gaps present. When flossing, there should be a slight bit of resistance when the floss navigates between the teeth. When there is not any resistance, this indicates the gap between the teeth is too large as the floss is able to slide without touching either tooth.
Gaps between the teeth which are not treated can cause issues such as gingival irritation, food impaction and lead to gingivitis or periodontitis.
Gaps are normal in children who still have a combination of their primary or baby and secondary or adult teeth. During this time, the teeth are falling out and erupting. These gaps often resolve themselves once all the adult teeth erupt. Schedule an appointment with an orthodontist who can closely monitor the teeth and ensure they are growing in properly. In cases where gaps are present which will not be corrected on their own, orthodontic intervention may be needed. Gaps which are not properly corrected can result in the following issues:
- Low confidence due to gaps in the smile
- Teeth which are not properly aligned
- Bacterial growth and build-up of plaque
- Decay in the teeth
- Gum disease
- Difficulty with chewing, biting, and swallowing
- Gingival inflammation
Teeth which are properly aligned aid in good oral health and general well-being. The mouth is often considered to be a gateway to the body. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene and maintain a healthy mouth to promote good overall health.