If you have a gap between your two front teeth, you have what’s known as a diastema—and although this condition has a serious-sounding medical name, it’s a very common condition, especially in children, and is rarely ever painful. But if you’re tired of how the issue is impacting your smile’s appearance, you might be searching for an effective solution—and you’re in luck! Keep reading to learn a little more about how your skilled cosmetic dentist can utilize veneers to address your diastema and give you a confidence-inspiring smile you’ll love showing off!
Why Is There a Gap Between My Two Front Teeth?
Diastemas can occur between any two teeth, but it’s often the most noticeable when it’s affecting the two upper front teeth. Sometimes, the issue can resolve itself entirely on its own; for instance, in children, the gap typically closes when their permanent teeth come through.
They have several possible causes, but a few common ones include:
- Missing or undersized teeth
- The teeth are too small in relation to the jaw
- An oversized labial frenum, (the tissue extending from the upper lip to the gum above the upper front teeth
- Untreated gum disease that has resulted in tooth migration
- An incorrect swallowing reflex
- Poor oral habits such as smoking, using chewing tobacco, or biting into hard objects
How Are Diastemas Treated?
Treatment is not usually necessary for a diastema for medical reasons, although, if a person dislikes the appearance of their smile due to the issue, it is possible to close or narrow the gap. Orthodontics is commonly used to address diastemas, in addition to a variety of other dental alignment problems. If the diastema exists due to missing teeth, more complex solutions such as a bridge or denture might be required. And if it’s due to an oversized labial frenum, surgery might be required.
However, veneers are one of the go-to answers for diastemas. Veneers are thin coverings made from dental porcelain that are expertly shaped and color-matched to restore a tooth’s natural appearance. In the case of a diastema, the veneers can be used to essentially cover the gap between the teeth, thus improving the smile’s symmetry and beauty.
About the Practice
The talented team at Rockville Family Dentistry has proudly served patients and families in the Rockville, MD community for several years under the leadership of Dr. Shahram Modarres. Dr. Modarres received his dental doctorate from the New York University School of Dentistry and is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the renowned Academy of General Dentistry. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit, feel free to contact his practice online or over the phone for further information or assistance. Telephone: (301) 816-9400.