Common Methods for Fixing Gapped Teeth
If your teeth are not aligned or they are shifting, it can create gaps.
Having a gap in your teeth can be a problem and it can be embarrassing. But the good news is that there are things that you can do to help close that gap.
Below are two options for closing gaps in your teeth. One option quickly fixes the gap and the other takes a longer approach.
Tooth Bonding
For tooth gaps that are large or when someone wants a fix that is quick, a good option is tooth bonding. A special resin that is tooth-colored is applied to your tooth and then hardened with a light.
This will bond the resin right to your tooth either to improve the tooth’s appearance or restore the tooth.
Quickly, just three or four hours, your teeth are normal again. This is a procedure that’s used when the tooth’s broken or chipped, although it’s becoming more common for closing gaps.
It’s one of the cheapest options, although you will probably have to pay for it yourself unless its due to medical repair.
Even though the material that dental bonding uses is fairly stain resistant, it’s not as good at resisting stains as the crown option. This material also doesn’t last long compared to other types of dental procedures and it can break and chip off of your tooth.
Orthodontia and Retainers
Retainers are used often after braces are taken off to keep your teeth aligned while your mouth is adjusting to not wearing braces. But they are also becoming more commonplace being used for aligning teeth right away. There are three retainer types.
1. Hawley Retainer
This is the one that a lot of people think about when it comes to a retainer. It’s tongue shaped, thin and removable that’s molded for your mouth. It also has a wire which holds teeth in place. This kind of retainer’s meant more for keeping teeth aligned instead of adjusting them.
2. Clear Aligner
These retainers are trays and made from transparent, thin plastic which goes over your teeth so that they’re slowly moved into the right position. These are favored by kids since they can’t be seen.
Since they’re made of plastic, they’re easily damaged and they’re not good for people who have trouble with grinding their teeth. These also needs replacement as the teeth are fixed.
When you eat, they simply can be removed and you can naturally chew without crushing it.
3. Fixed Retainers
These retainers are good especially for front teeth on the bottom. A wire’s bonded to the teeth’s tongue side so they’re kept in alignment. This can stay there for a few months or longer.
Fixed retainers may lead to tartar build-up or gingivitis due to the difficulty of flossing while wearing these retainers.
It is used for keeping the teeth in place instead of moving them. This retainer type is recommended sometimes when there’s a big risk that the teeth could go back to the way they were.
If you have a gap in your teeth, using one of the above methods can help you with looking and feeling better. They can fix it quickly or they can take longer, depending on which one you choose. Either way, both will help you close the gaps and give you a better smile.
Questions about your Gaps?
If cosmetic issues are affecting your smile, the team at Island Coast Dentistry can help. Through a comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Skupny can tailor a oral treatment plan that is most effective for you. A beautiful, healthy smile can be yours!
Contact us today to learn more, or schedule a consultation online.