Have Gaps Between Your Teeth? We have solutions!

What are Great Treatment to Options to Fix Gaps Between Teeth?

A gap between two teeth is called a diastema. Diastemas appear most commonly between the two upper front teeth although it is possible to have gaps between any two teeth or multiple teeth. Having wide spaces between the teeth is often a genetic trait and many people like their gap and feel that it gives their smile character. Others feel that they would like to close this space. There is more than one way to close spacing between teeth. At Southpointe Dental, we can discuss the options available to close a gap between teeth so that you can make a decision if you choose to change your smile.

The solution for small gaps between teeth: Bonding

A temporary and inexpensive solution to close smaller gaps between the teeth is called bonding. Your dentist uses a tooth-colored resin material that is cured with a light. This material can be used to re-shape your tooth and fill smaller spaces between the teeth. When you leave the office, this option looks beautiful and natural. Unfortunately, dental bonding does not last more than a few years. This is because despite excellent oral hygiene, resin material stains easily around the margins where it is bonded to the tooth. Patients should know that dental bonding is a solution that has to be redone periodically throughout their lifetime. It is not a suitable option if the gaps are large, because it can result in an uneven appearance in the translucency and shade of the tooth.

The solution for multiple gaps between teeth: Traditional Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment utilizes both traditional metal wires and brackets as well as clear and nearly invisible Invisalign technology to move teeth into alignment and permanently close gaps between teeth. After treatment, your orthodontist may bond a permanent retention wire to the back of your front teeth to secure them into their new positions in addition to asking you to wear a removable retainer every night. Braces are a less invasive treatment method to correct spacing between teeth because they do not require the removal of healthy tooth structure in order to realign the teeth. The disadvantage of orthodontic treatment is time and cost. Some patients want a faster and lower-cost option.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Veneers are made of a beautiful, translucent, natural-looking porcelain restorative material. Veneers are as thin as a contact lens and only require minimal tooth structure to be removed to bond them to the front of the teeth. Veneers are a permanent restoration and cannot be reversed. This option can be used to correct multiple gaps between your teeth. Veneers blend beautifully with your natural teeth and are resistant to discoloration and staining. Veneers can correct the shape, color and positioning of your teeth.

Instant Orthodontics in Lincoln, NE:
Instantly re-align the teeth with restorations

For some patients, the position of the teeth is not their only concern. Sometimes the shape, color and position are all factors when it comes choosing an option that will suit their needs. For these patients, instant orthodontics in Lincoln, NE is a great solution. Instant orthodontics allows your dentist to correct shape, color, size and positioning concerns you might have about your smile by restoring your teeth with veneers, crowns, or a blend of the two. Depending on how many teeth you wish to restore, your case can be completed in as little as two appointments, within two weeks. You can work with your dentist to design the smile you have always wanted.

How much do dental veneers cost?

Depending on the reason for the dental veneers, your insurance may cover a portion of the cost of your treatment. Typically veneers are considered a cosmetic procedure and have limited insurance coverage. Usually veneers cost around $1100 per tooth. If you are considering veneers, orthodontic treatment or instant orthodontics in Lincoln, NE to correct gaps between your teeth and want to know more about your treatment options and the cost of treatment, you can call our office and schedule a complimentary consultation to see if you are a candidate. If you have gaps because of missing teeth, more extensive treatment may be required to close the spaces. Missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants, a dental bridge, or a partial denture. Regardless of whether you would like to replace missing teeth or close gaps between teeth, we can help you achieve the results you want. We have helped hundreds of patients transform their smiles by closing gaps with beautiful, natural-looking restorations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I fill the gaps between my teeth?

It is possible to close the gaps between teeth by doing various cosmetic dental procedures such as orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign, dental bonding, or instant orthodontics in Lincoln, NE which utilizes veneers or crowns.

Do gaps in teeth get bigger?

In some cases, gaps between teeth can get bigger. Generally, this happens when people have a habit called “tongue thrust.” This occurs when the person naturally pushes their tongue against the front teeth during swallowing rather than against the roof of the mouth. Tongue thrusting can also become an adaptive habit in patients who have tongue piercings as a way to compensate for the jewelry. This habit causes the teeth to become flared outward, spreading them apart over time. If you notice that your gaps are getting bigger, call your “dentist near me” to check it out.

Are gaps between teeth hereditary?

The size and shape of the jaw and teeth are determined by our genetics. Diastemas, or gaps between the teeth, are a genetic trait. Other factors that influence spacing between teeth is if there are congenitally missing teeth (teeth that are not present but are normally present in the majority of the population).

Can I fix the gap between my teeth at home?

It is possible to find companies on the internet selling orthodontic rubber bands or other elastic materials to people to close gaps between the teeth. It is not a good idea to try this approach. Orthodontists use scientifically tested methods to move the teeth into proper alignment. Moving teeth too quickly or exerting sudden force against the teeth can damage them. It is a good idea to seek professional dental care if you want to fix the gaps in your teeth. There are multiple ways to treat this concern and your dentist will be able to explain all of your options with you.

How much does it cost to fix gaps between the teeth?

The cost to fix gaps in the teeth can vary depending on the treatment chosen. Dental bonding is the cheapest way to close gaps, but is not indicated for patients with very large gaps. Your dentist can examine your teeth and explain treatment options to you for your specific case. They can give you estimates of the cost differences between the various treatment options. Instant orthodontics in Lincoln, NE is a way to immediately fix gaps and alignment issues with the teeth and typically costs less than traditional orthodontic treatment.

How long does it take to close a gap between the teeth?

If you choose a restorative option like bonding or instant orthodontics in Lincoln, NE which uses veneers or crowns to close the gaps between teeth, it is possible to have instant results. If you choose to have traditional orthodontic treatment, the length of time can be a few months or longer.