Your smile is the first thing people notice about you, so you want your teeth to be healthy and straight. This kind of smile often doesn’t come naturally—many people have gaps in their teeth that won’t go away on their own. So what is the best way to close a tooth gap? Keep reading to learn more about tooth gaps and the best way to handle them.
Why Do People Have Tooth Gaps?
Tooth gaps appear because of a variety of different causes. You could have a genetic predisposition toward them, or you may have sucked your thumb or a pacifier when you were younger. Tongue thrusting—when you push your tongue against the back of your teeth—can also create gaps between your teeth. Losing a tooth can also create a gap as the teeth move to try to fill in the empty space.
Should I Fix My Tooth Gaps?
In most cases, yes. Having straight teeth with no gaps helps you maintain good oral health. Teeth gaps can cause numerous issues, including tooth decay and bacteria build-up from food getting caught in misaligned teeth. For gaps in the back of your teeth, you could have issues with biting, swallowing, or chewing, as well as the danger of gums being injured by food stuck between the gaps.
On top of these physical health issues, tooth gaps can cause mental distress. You might be embarrassed to smile or talk for fear people will notice your tooth gap. This can lower your self-esteem and create mental health issues long term.
What Is the Best Way to Close a Tooth Gap?
The best, most permanent way to fix a tooth gap is by getting braces or Invisalign. Although there are other orthodontic procedures that could cover or temporarily fix a tooth gap, only braces or Invisalign will permanently close the gaps between teeth. Other procedures, like dental bonding or veneers, don’t fix the gaps; they just cover them up.
Braces are an affordable way to fix these gaps. Using metal brackets and wires, braces slowly move your teeth into position, closing any gaps. You then wear a retainer to maintain the work the braces completed. This tends to be the most popular option for kids, due to its affordability and relatively quick treatment schedule. Kids also don’t have to remember to put their braces on, since they are attached until the treatment is completed.
Invisalign is the most popular choice among adults. Since it uses clear aligners to move the teeth, Invisalign isn’t as visible as silver braces. You also don’t have to worry about what you’re eating, since Invisalign aligners are removable while eating and brushing your teeth.
Which Orthodontic Treatment Is Right for Me?
During your free consultation with Smith Orthodontics, we will discuss whether braces or Invisalign would be best for you. This depends on how long you will need the treatment and where your gaps present, as well as your age and budget. We have affordable payment options for all budgets, and we’ll be happy to help you decide which option is right for you.
If you’re still thinking, What is the best way to close my tooth gap?, please give Smith Orthodontics a call! We would love to help you understand and decide on next steps so you can get the healthy smile you deserve.
