If you or your child is experiencing gaps between teeth, you’re not alone. Many people grapple with this issue, known medically as diastema. Here at Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, we receive a multitude of questions surrounding the topic, but the most common is, “Can braces fix gaps in teeth?” The short answer is, yes, braces can be a highly effective treatment for this issue. In this blog post, we’re going to delve deeper into this topic, discussing the causes, implications, and how braces can help rectify the problem.
What Are Gaps Between Teeth
Gaps between teeth can occur anywhere in the mouth. The most noticeable ones are usually between the two upper front teeth. Several factors may lead to diastema, including mismatched jawbone and teeth sizes, missing or undersized teeth, and certain habits or behaviors like thumb sucking or an incorrect swallowing reflex.
What Causes Gaps Between Teeth?
Gaps between teeth, medically known as diastema, can be caused by several factors:
- Mismatched Teeth and Jaw Size: This is the most common reason for gaps between teeth. If your jaw is too big for your teeth, it can cause gaps. Similarly, if your teeth are too small for your jaw, gaps may appear.
- Missing or Undersized Teeth: If you’re missing teeth or if some of your teeth are smaller than others (which is common with the upper lateral incisors), gaps can form.
- Tongue Thrust Swallowing Reflex: The way you swallow can affect the positioning of your teeth. Most people press their tongue against the roof of their mouth when they swallow. However, some people push their tongue against their front teeth when they swallow. This action, over time, can push the teeth forward and cause gaps.
- Habits or Behaviors: Habits like thumb sucking or prolonged use of a pacifier or bottle in childhood can cause gaps. These habits exert pressure on the front teeth, pushing them out and creating a gap.
- Periodontal Disease: In adults, gaps between teeth can sometimes be caused by gum disease. As periodontal disease advances, bone loss can occur, which can lead to gaps between the teeth.
- Genetics: Sometimes, diastema is simply a characteristic that runs in the family. If your parents or grandparents had gaps between their teeth, you could inherit that trait.
Please note that it’s always best to consult with an orthodontist or a dentist to understand the underlying cause of gaps between teeth. If you’re concerned about gaps in your teeth, a dental professional will be able to provide a definitive diagnosis and treatment options.
Implications of Gaps Between Teeth
While some people may choose to keep their gap as a unique aspect of their smile, for others, it may pose aesthetic concerns or even oral health issues. Larger gaps may trap food, leading to gum problems or decay. Additionally, gaps can sometimes indicate underlying dental issues, such as periodontal disease.
How Braces Can Help
Braces are a time-tested solution for correcting gaps in teeth. They work by applying gentle pressure over time to shift your teeth into proper alignment, effectively closing the gaps. The duration of the treatment varies depending on the severity of the diastema and the type of braces used.
Types of Braces to Fix Gaps
At Ahava Orthodontics, we provide several types of braces to suit individual needs and preferences:
- Metal Braces: Traditional and highly effective, these are the most common type used to close gaps.
- Ceramic Braces: These function similarly to metal braces but with tooth-colored or clear brackets, offering a more discreet look.
- Lingual Braces: These are attached to the inside surface of your teeth for near invisibility.
- Clear Aligners (like Invisalign): These removable, clear trays are a popular choice for adults and teens.
Choosing the Right Treatment at Ahava Orthodontics
The decision to get braces involves several factors, such as the severity of your gap, your lifestyle preferences, and your budget. During your orthodontic exam at our Fort Worth office, we will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and work with you to create a tailored treatment plan.
Come in Fort a Consultation on the Gaps In Yours or Your Childs Teeth
Yes, braces can definitely fix gaps in teeth, and at Ahava Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you through the process. Our dedicated team is committed to transforming smiles in Fort Worth with our personalized orthodontic care. If you have a gap you’d like to close, don’t hesitate to reach out and book an orthodontic consultation with us today.
