Teeth spacing treatments
It is relatively common for patients to have a gap between their front teeth. Fortunately, a qualified dentist can help to correct the issue. For patients who want to close the gap between their front teeth, there are several options which are both safe and effective in adjusting the teeth and restoring the smile. These treatment options are summarized below.
Bonding
Dental bonding is an efficient and affordable cosmetic treatment. It is often used to close small gaps and can also be used to conceal other types of imperfections. For patients with a gap, the dentist will apply a composite resin material to each side of the teeth where the gap is located. The dentist will manipulate the material to make the teeth a wider and close the gap. The composite resin which is used for bonding is tooth colored and can closely match the natural teeth.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers can also be used to conceal a small gap between the front teeth. Veneers are a thin piece of porcelain which is bonded to the front surface of the tooth. They are used to improve the appearance of the teeth. In the treatment of a gap, the dentist can place two veneers over the teeth closest to the gap. The veneers make the tooth slightly wider and conceals the gap.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers can be an excellent solution for gaps which are relatively small, 1-3mm. Composite veneers can also aid in repairing teeth which are discolored or misshapen. The veneers cover the top surface of the tooth and can drastically improve the appearance of the tooth. Minimal tooth preparation is required for composite veneers and the solution is less expensive compared to porcelain veneers.
Orthodontic Treatments
For gaps which are larger in size or when the patient has other alignment issues such as an overbite or underbite, they may require orthodontic treatment. The two orthodontic options which are used to close a gap include traditional metal braces and removable aligners. Both solutions place targeted pressure on the teeth to adjust them into the desired position.
For gaps which are larger or teeth which require more complicated adjustments, braces are often the ideal solution. Braces are also ideal for treating alignment and bite issues. Braces are also a good solution when the color, shape, and size of the teeth do not need to be adjusted or modified. When the shape, color, or size are not desirable, however, additional cosmetic treatments might be needed once the braces are removed. Braces also take about 12–18 months on average for patients to complete treatment.
Frenectomy
In some cases, the labial frenum is oversized and extends between the front teeth and creates a gap between the teeth. The labial frenum is the tissue that connects the upper lip and the gums. When this is the cause for a gap in the front teeth, a frenectomy is required to remove the extra tissue. Following the procedure, an orthodontic or cosmetic treatment such as veneers or bonding is used to make the teeth appear larger and eliminate the space.
Bridges and Implants
When the space between the front teeth is caused by a missing tooth, a dental implant or bridge can be used. Dental implants include an artificial tooth which is connected to a post which is surgically placed in the jawbone. A bridge includes two crowns that are connected to the teeth adjacent to the gap. These crowns are used to support the artificial tooth which is then placed in the area containing the gap.