While some gaps in your smile are a harmless cosmetic quirk, larger spaces can cause issues such as inefficient chewing.

If you are self-conscious about gapped teeth or need treatment to improve your oral health, your dentist can recommend a solution.

Do I need to worry about gaps?

A gap left by an extracted tooth will involve a different treatment process – such as a dental bridge – than gaps caused by natural jaw development or childhood habits.

Are certain people more likely to develop permanent gaps?

Many of the factors which cause gaps and other types of misalignment are genetic, including the size of your teeth and jaw. Often, gapped teeth run in families.
Certain bad habits which are common in childhood can also lead to the development of gaps, including thumbsucking.

What causes gapped teeth?

A frenulum or frenum refers to the band of tissue under the top lip, underneath the tongue, and inside the cheeks. If the tissue is  longer than normal, it can cause gaps between the front teeth, either in the top or bottom jaw.

Smaller than average teeth or extra teeth that block others from coming in  can leave gaps in your smile.

In some cases, the jaw is relatively large  compared to the size of the teeth.

You may have been born without certain teeth , which leaves a space behind in the jaw.

Are gaps between teeth normal?

However, this percentage decreases dramatically with age. Most childhood gaps will close on their own as permanent teeth erupt. _{* According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.}

What should I do if I have gaps in my smile?

For many patients, gaps are simply a cosmetic concern but some diastema can affect your oral health. Leaving large gaps untreated can cause other teeth to shift or increase your risk of gum disease. It is important to ask your doctor about gaps in your smile.

During your appointment, the doctor will examine your smile to assess the health of your teeth and gums. They may also take an x-ray or another type of scan to examine the tooth roots and see if any teeth are trapped below the gums, causing gaps. Be ready to discuss your medical and dental history so your doctor can determine the cause of your diastema.

Can I prevent gaps from forming?

Preventing Gaps Requires Early Intervention

“Not all diastemas can be treated the same… Timing is often important to achieve satisfactory results.”

– Wen-Jeng Huang, DDS and Curtis J. Creath, DMD, MS

Braces and other orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign®, are commonly used to fix diastema. Orthodontics can adjust teeth to close gaps and create a healthier, more comfortable bite.

What if I don’t want braces?

Porcelain Veneers Veneers are a good option for the front of your smile and can adjust the size of teeth.

Dental Bonding

Your doctor can also hide gaps using a malleable composite resin material.

Periodontal Treatment

Gaps caused by periodontal disease require treatment to restore gum health.

Dental Restorations

Gaps caused by lost or naturally missing teeth can be filled using a restoration.

Frenectomy

Frenectomy, a simple surgery, can reduce the size of gaps caused by a large frenum.

I’m ready to fix the gaps in my smile. What should I do?

Contact a Doctor Today

If you feel self-conscious about gapped or missing teeth, you have many options to improve the health and appearance of your smile. Find out more about your next steps by  contacting a doctor today.

24950 Redlands Blvd
Ste B
Loma Linda, CA 92354