Do you have space between your teeth, blocking the way of a perfect bite and smile? Gapped teeth in children can be genetic, or the condition can develop over time due to external reasons such as an injury. But don’t mistake this to be a cosmetic imperfection only. This gap in your teeth can make space for many dental health conditions if not treated timely.
More About Gapped Teeth
The condition where you have a gap between your teeth is called diastema. You may think diastema is a rare occurrence, but no, it is not. Almost half the children below age six have gapped teeth; however, the gap closes by itself when permanent teeth appear. And the prevalence in adults is about 23.6%. So, you are not alone.
So are you unsure about taking the treatment of gapped teeth? Reading this article will help you decide as it elaborates on the dental health consequences and treatment options of diastema.
Five Possible Dental Health Problems Because of Diastema
You can suffer through the following oral diseases and health issues if you choose not to take or delay your gapped teeth treatment.
1. Tooth Decay
Too much gap in teeth creates problems in cleaning them properly. Therefore these gaps become the breeding ground for bacteria and plaque build-up leading to decay and gum diseases.
2. Gum Disease or Infection
When this plaque is not dealt with on time, it can also lead to gum diseases or periodontal diseases. Therefore, it would be best to act fast to eliminate gum infection. Otherwise, it can convert into serious problems like bone loss.
3. Misalignment of Teeth
Not everyone with diastema has this issue. But when there is more space between the teeth, it creates a misalignment between the teeth.
4. Chronic Headaches
Space between teeth creates a misaligned bite that puts pressure on your jaw joints and entire facial features. This constant pressure can lead to chronic headaches.
5. Problems in Eating & Speaking
You may experience pain or discomfort while eating and chewing due to a misaligned bite. Some words and sounds may also become difficult to pronounce because of this.
Gapped Teeth Treatment
When you go to your dentist or orthodontist for treatment, they will likely suggest any of these options:-
- Metal Braces
You need to wear a set of metal braces even if you have a single gap in your teeth. Braces pressure gapped teeth to move closer through their brackets and wires. It is one of the most conventional treatments for diastema.
- Invisalign
Invisalign treatment involves wearing a set of aligner trays and changing them after a particular time. These aligners are transparent and removable. So they are more popular than traditional metal braces among teens and adults.
- Dental Implants
If missing teeth is the reason for the space between your teeth, your dentist may suggest a dental implant or a dental bridge to replace your missing teeth. This bridge is secured with a metal screw in your jawbone.
- Orthodontic Surgery
Orthodontic surgery is done to extract any extra tissue. It also paves the way for other orthodontic treatments. For example, if an abnormal frenum or a cyst is responsible for the gap in your teeth, you may need orthodontic surgery.
The Bottom Line
Thanks to technological innovations and advancements in dentistry, the diastema is perfectly curable. So don’t live with the gaps in your teeth one more day. Contact your dentist or orthodontist at the earliest to enjoy a comfortable bite and beautiful smile.
Edited by love4wellness | Images: canva.com
