Diastema is the term for any
space between two teeth. The midline
diastema (space between the two upper central incisors) is by far the most
common. Some celebrities have embraced their diastemas and have become part of
their persona. For example…
Many people
have a diastema and in most cases it may give some character, but for some they
feel it detracts from their smile. With the advent of new materials and
techniques patients have very conservative options available to eliminate these
spaces.
In order to
determine the best treatment we need to establish the etiology or cause for the
diastema. The most common cause is the shape of the teeth. If the central
incisors are rectangular shaped rather than ovoid this will lead to formation
of a space. This is also the most easily corrected. Simply adding composite
bonding to the side of the teeth will establish proper contours and close the
space, and this is done without any harm to the teeth
Another common
reason for spaces is a tooth size discrepancy. Simply put this is when the
teeth are too small for the size of the jaw. For these cases bonding can be
done to make the teeth wider, but if the shape of the teeth is good then
orthodontic treatment (braces) may be the treatment of choice. There are now
many esthetic options for orthodontic treatment (Invisalign, Ceramic Brackets,
Short Term Orthodontics), and in some cases treatment can be completed in a few
months.
Any spaces
between teeth that were not previously there or are getting worse can be a sign
of a problem. Gum disease weakens the support for the teeth and they become
mobile and eventually spread out from biting forces causing spacing. Gum
disease needs to be treated early to prevent systemic illness and tooth loss.
If you love
your space and want to remain in the gap tooth club with Madonna, David
Letterman, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Anna Paquin and Woody Harrelson, it worked
for them. But if you are looking for a change or think your smile will look
better and give you more confidence without the space; see your dentist for a
consultation.
Composite Veneers by Salvatore Lotardo DDS
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