Tooth Gap Causes and Treatment Options Available to Houston Area Dental Patients
What is a tooth gap? A common cosmetic issue frequently seen at our Houston dental practice is that of gapped teeth. Dental patients may have gapped teeth due to many factors ranging from thumb-sucking as a child to periodontal disease. Our Houston cosmetic dental practice is pleased to offer solutions to our patients to provide the best outcomes for their unique needs. Medically known as “diastema”, gaps can happen anywhere in the mouth although they are most frequently seen between the front two teeth. This can be difficult for individuals since this area is highly visible when you talk and smile. Closing gaps in your teeth can dramatically improve your confidence and overall appearance.
What Causes a Tooth Gap?
A tooth gap can result from many different problems in the mouth. These include:
- Missing teeth, which allow other teeth to spread out in the mouth
- Thumb-sucking as a child
- Teeth that are disproportionate to the jawbone
- Lip-tie (extra tissue between the two front teeth)
- Periodontal disease
- Poorly aligned dental arch
How are Tooth Gaps Treated?
At our Houston-area dental practice, Dr. Frazar uses a variety of methods to help patients close teeth gaps. A popular option is dental bonding. During this cosmetic dental procedure, a tooth-colored resin material is used to disguise the gap between the teeth. Porcelain veneers are another popular option in which thin ceramic facings are placed over the teeth to hide any imperfections. Orthodontia may also be beneficial if teeth are misaligned. These cosmetic dental procedures are popular with Houston-are dental patients in order to restore a winning smile.
Cosmetic Dental Treatment for Tooth Gaps
Porcelain Veneers
Versatile porcelain veneers are thin shells that look just like your natural teeth. They fit over your teeth and can be made wide enough to hide any gaps. An added benefit of getting porcelain veneers is that they are great for covering any discolored areas or stains on your teeth, as well as any imperfections or cracks.
Bonding
Bonding can close smaller gaps in order to help you achieve a great smile. The bonding material made of resins and composites is added to your tooth and a natural-looking gap closure is created. Bonding does not damage your enamel and is incredibly safe. While bonding does not last as long as veneers, it is an inexpensive and painless alternative.
Great Outcomes with Noninvasive Treatments
Traditional braces or Invisalign are also options for closing gaps between your teeth. However, these results take more time and are better used for more involved situations such as bite issues or crooked teeth. It is never too late to have corrective cosmetic orthodontic work completed. Many Houston-area adults are coming to have tooth gaps closed and improve their confidence. Having well aligned teeth also makes regular brushing and flossing easier and more effective to keep your teeth healthy for years to come.
If your gap is quite large or is caused due to missing teeth, dental implants or bridgework may be the solution. Our office can sit down with you and discuss your cosmetic dental needs, explain our techniques, and come up with the best solution to fit your needs and budget.
Considering Cosmetic Treatment for Your Tooth Gap in Houston?
Work with Dr. Frazar and her team to find the most effective solution for your smile! We are always accepting new patients in the Houston and surrounding area who are ready to improve their confidence and smile!