Teeth Gap-Filling: Which Procedure Is Best?

Tooth gaps

Teeth gap-filling is a dental procedure that replaces missing teeth or fills the teeth gaps. This procedure aims to restore and improve the appearance of your smile and prevent crooked teeth from shifting. 

Gappy teeth are a problem many adults and adolescents experience, and they can make your smile look less than ideal. Gap teeth can create or worsen dental problems, such as crowding, periodontal disease, and dental decay. 

In most cases, the gap is small and can be filled with a tooth-colored filling material similar to your natural teeth. In some instances, the spacing is so great that teeth must be surgically moved. 

However, the treatment you receive is based mainly on cosmetic concerns. Moreover, the following article will provide information about the best way to treat a gap in your teeth.

What Is The Teeth Gap?

A gap, in dental terms, refers to a space between any two adjacent teeth. If you have a gap or not enough teeth, a tooth gap-filling procedure is done. To create a matching tooth-shaped filling for the gap region of your teeth, you may need to see your dentist. 

However, different dentists have different techniques for the treatment of this issue. Some may opt to have the gap filled in with tooth-colored filling material, and in other cases, the dentist may opt to use several dental implants or surgical procedures to replace missing teeth.

Most people who experience gaps between their teeth are usually young children or adolescents. Moreover, there are different types of tooth gaps, such as a:

  • Frontal tooth gap 
  • Lateral tooth gap
  • Maxillary (upper) tooth gap
  • Mandibular (lower) tooth gap 

A gap between two teeth is known as a “diastema.” A diastema is often noticeable because there is extra space between two teeth. This extra space can be as small as a pearly white or as great as one’s thumb. 

However, some people may experience a gap in their teeth that is not obvious. They may have gaps of space between their teeth where the roots of their teeth meet under the gums. This type of gap is known as a “clearance” in dental terms. 

Some people have this issue because they didn’t get enough fluoride and vitamin D in their diets when they were children. 

What Are The Causes Of Diastema Or Teeth Gaps?

There are several reasons why one may experience a tooth gap. Some of the reasons include 

  • The size of the teeth concerning the jawbone: Some people have small teeth, often measured by their arch length, and their jawbones may be comparatively large. The result is a gap between the front teeth or the front part of the mouth. 
  • Missing or undersized teeth: Teeth can be missing or under-sized for several reasons. If the roots of teeth are too small, then the front teeth can look worn down and crooked. It can cause a gap between these front teeth.
  • Oversized labial frenum: The labial frenum is the tissue fold that attaches the upper lip to the gum line. The labial frenum can be too long and cause excessive upper lip movement. It causes a gap between two teeth when you bite down, as the extra movement allows your upper teeth to fit further into your mouth than usual.
  • Gum disease: Some people have a gap between their two front teeth because of periodontal disease or an infection. When gum disease is left untreated, it can cause the gums to recede from the teeth. It causes the tooth roots to be exposed and can potentially cause a gap between your teeth.
  • Incorrect swallowing reflex: The way you used to swallow when you were a baby can cause tooth gaps later. Your baby teeth and the adult teeth should meet together when you chew food or bite down on something. Some children have an incorrect swallowing reflex that causes a gap between their front teeth. It can cause your adult teeth to be pushed out of alignment.
  • Loss of primary teeth: A gap between your teeth may result from losing your baby teeth too soon. When your baby teeth begin to fall out, you need to replace them with permanent teeth. If your permanent adult tooth does not come in quick enough, it can cause a gap in your mouth.

What Are The Different Types Of Teeth Gap Filling?

There are a few different ways you can treat teeth gaps, depending on the severity of the gap. Most types of tooth gap filling are cosmetic treatments, which means you will likely need to visit your dentist or orthodontist to resolve this issue. 

However, there are some rare cases where your dentist may recommend a gap-filling treatment to improve your teeth’ alignment. Following are some of the most common types of tooth gap fillings:

  • Dental Bonding: 

Dental bonding is a resin placed between your teeth to fill the space. It can be done in any tooth gap and can be done on both upper and lower teeth. Dental bonding does not require a prescription, and you do not need to see your dentist for treatment. 

After the resin has been set, you will see the results of a gap-filling treatment. You can choose to use a transparent or white bonded resin. Moreover, dental bonding is one of the most popular tooth gap fillings.

  • Porcelain Veneers: 

Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain used to change the color, shape, and size of a tooth gap. For example, this type of filling can improve an overbite visibly or help you achieve a beautiful smile

Porcelain veneers are typically custom-made and will match your natural teeth coloring with a similar shade to your pearly whites. They reflect light exactly like natural teeth and can change the color and shape of a tooth gap.

  • Dental Implant: 

Dental implants fill gaps in your teeth caused by missing teeth. These gaps can be due to any reason, such as tooth loss or an improper swallowing reflex. Your dentist may suggest a dental implant to replace traditional dental work. 

Dental implants can help you permanently replace a missing tooth gap, and they are ideal for patients who want a more natural look. Moreover, they will last longer than removable dentures and provide a stronger bite than fixed bridges.

  • Composite veneers: 

Composite veneers are also known as porcelain-fused to metal veneers. This type of filling is used to restore the color and shape of your teeth, such as enlarging your teeth or closing a gap in the front of your mouth. 

Composite veneers are thin layers of composite resin designed to change the color and size of your teeth. Similar to porcelain veneers, composite veneers will match your natural teeth, providing you with a beautiful smile. Composite veneers need less tooth preparation and are less expensive than porcelain veneers. 

  • Invisalign Braces: 

Invisalign is a line of clear, removable braces used to reposition and align your teeth. They are perfect for people who want a discreet, comfortable treatment to fix the alignment of their teeth. 

Moreover, Invisalign can be removed for eating and drinking, but you may need to wear them during sleep, depending on the severity of your tooth gap.

Does Teeth Gap Filling Require Braces?

While gap fillings are one of the most common ways to improve a teeth gap, braces are still used by many orthodontists, dentists, and mouth specialists. Braces can provide more stability to your teeth and do not require any tooth preparation. 

However, teeth gap filling is recommended if you wish to have a less conspicuous appearance on your teeth. Braces can also provide additional stability to your teeth and can be used to improve bite relations to improve jaw function.

How To Select The Best Teeth Gap-Filling?

You need to ensure some things before selecting the best type of teeth gap filling. A few of them include the following:

  • Cost: 

You want to consider how much money you are willing to spend on teeth gap filling. It can vary depending on the severity of your gap and the type of treatment you select. 

For example, porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite veneers, and dental implants are more expensive than dental bonding.

  • Skill: 

Another thing you should consider is the experience level of your dentist. Your dentist may have performed hundreds of different types of tooth gap fillings, and they will inform you more in-depth information about them. 

Furthermore, your dentist is also trained to select the best treatment for you based on your beautiful, healthy smile.

  • Treatments: 

Another thing you should factor in when selecting the best type of tooth gap filling is how much treatment is required. For example, Invisalign braces are ideal for patients who need faster treatment because they only require you to wear them for roughly a year.

  • Appearance: 

Finally, it would help to consider how your teeth gap filling will look after completion. You may want to note some of the following options:  transparent bonding, porcelain veneers, and dental implants. 

These treatments can change the appearance of your teeth gap, and they do not require any tooth preparation. 

Are teeth gap fillings dangerous?

Teeth gap fillings are not considered dangerous, and they are safe if performed by a trained dentist or orthodontist. However, there are some risks inherent to all types of dental treatment. 

For example, composite veneers may give you sensitivity in your teeth if they are placed too close to your gums. Additionally, dental bonding is more difficult to remove than other types of tooth gap filling, leading to permanent tooth damage. 

However, these risks are rare if your dentist is trained and experienced in treating teeth gaps.

How Long Does Teeth Gap Filling Take?

Regardless of the type of teeth gap filling you select, you should expect to have your teeth gap filled in a relatively short period. However, some types of teeth gap filling can take longer than others. 

For example, porcelain veneers and dental implants typically take 4 to 6 months, while composite veneers can take up to 12 weeks. However, the majority of treatments can be completed within four weeks. 

Additionally, a single gap-filling treatment can be enough to restore the appearance of your teeth. However, some treatments, such as Invisalign braces, require multiple visits. 

Moreover, a single appointment will typically be enough for your dentist to properly identify your needs and begin treatment.

How To Maintain Your Teeth After Gap Filling?

Many patients find that maintaining their teeth after gap filling is relatively easy. The most important thing you want to consider is how to clean your teeth after gap-filling properly. However, the following are a few essential tips to help you maintain your teeth after gap-filling:

  • Brush your teeth twice daily.
  • Visit your dentist every six months for a dental cleaning.
  • Keep your mouth clean by washing with warm water and toothpaste twice daily and flossing at least once daily.
  • Keep track of any dental changes you may experience and consult your dentist if you are concerned.

Conclusion

There are many different options for teeth gap filling. It demonstrates the variety of treatments available and a practice management system that can provide you with an attractive, durable smile. 

However, irrespective of the treatment you select for your teeth gap, the most important thing is finding a dentist who can provide you with a quick, comfortable, and affordable treatment solution. Therefore, you should take the time to find a dentist that can provide you with the treatment you need.

Moreover, you should carefully select the best type of treatment and fully understand how it will benefit your teeth gap. It is important to ensure you choose a treatment suited for you and your needs.

FAQ

Is teeth gap filling painful?

Not all teeth gap filling treatments are painful. Therefore, you should consult your dentist to determine which treatment is ideal for your needs and unlikely to cause any discomfort.

How much does teeth gap filling cost?

The cost of teeth gap filling may vary depending on the type of treatment you select, the severity of your gap, and the complexity of your case. However, the approximate cost of a teeth gap filling treatment can range from $1,200 to $5,000.

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