Also known as diastema, gaps between teeth can appear anywhere in the mouth but are often found between the upper front teeth. Whether you are interested in treatment for cosmetic reasons or you’re concerned about your oral health, the best dentists in Montreal recommend that you schedule an appointment at your Westmount dental clinic to determine which treatment will best meet your needs.
Causes of Diastema
There are several causes and risk factors for diastema. In children, gaps may close when their permanent teeth come in. If they lose a tooth too early, the best dentists in Montreal may place a space maintainer to facilitate normal development of the jawbone and muscles, save space for permanent teeth and help guide them into position.
When a person’s teeth are too small for their jawbone, teeth can be spaced too far apart, causing gaps. This condition is often genetic and may run in your family. The overgrowth of gum tissue along the gumline can also cause a separation between teeth. Bone loss caused by gum disease can also cause teeth to loosen and shift. Thumb sucking and tongue thrusting can push the front teeth forward as well, eventually causing teeth to separate.
Treatment for Gaps Between Teeth
Although many patients choose treatment for cosmetic reasons, gaps between teeth can also cause pain and discomfort. There are several different ways to close spaces or reduce their size.
Braces and Retainers
The best dentists in Montreal provide orthodontic treatment that can help close gaps and straighten teeth. Depending on your specific needs, your dentist may recommend traditional braces or Invisalign. If the gap between your teeth is small, you may just need a retainer to help close it. After orthodontic treatment, you will most likely need to keep wearing your retainer to ensure teeth don’t drift apart again.
Bonding
Dental bonding is a quick, cost-effective solution to repair small spaces caused by chipped teeth. The best Montreal dentists use a tooth-colored composite resin that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth. It’s important to keep in mind that bonding may have to be redone after several years or if the tooth chips again.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells that are bonded to the front of teeth to create a beautiful, straight, healthy smile line. They are used to cover gaps, stains, cracks, chips and other imperfections. Veneers are a more permanent solution than bonding and can last 15 years or more.
If you have spaces between your teeth that you’d like to repair, make an appointment with the best dentist in Montreal to find out the most effective treatment to enhance your smile and your oral health.
