What Can a Cosmetic Dentist Do About Too Much Space Between Teeth?
A cosmetic dentist can close up any gaps between your teeth. Medically termed, "diastema," a gap between teeth is most likely to affect the two upper front teeth. It is often due to genetics, and some people are perfectly happy with a gap in their smile.
Others are not as pleased with their gaps, and they might seek the services of a cosmetic dentist to close them. There are a few dental treatments that can be used to close such gaps.
Ways that a cosmetic dentist might address diastema
The approach that a cosmetic dentist decides to take when it comes to closing a gap between a patient’s teeth varies based on factors like how wide the gap is. Here are common treatments that a dentist might recommend to those with diastema.
1. Composite bonding
This is the least expensive way to fix gaps between teeth, and the procedure does not require making any permanent alterations to the patient’s teeth. It involves applying a composite resin, which has been color-matched with the rest of the patient’s teeth, to the space and filling it up. The composite is hardened with a curing light and polished to give it a shine like real teeth.
Repairs made with composite bonding can last up to five years with good oral hygiene. The procedure can be completed during a single trip to the dentist, so the patient leaves the clinic with their smile restored.
2. Braces/clear aligners
At times, a space between teeth can be the result of improperly aligned teeth. When this is the case, a cosmetic dentist might recommend fixing the source of the problem by improving the alignment of the patient’s teeth. Orthodontic appliances, like braces and clear aligners, are typically used for this.
Clear aligners are the more popular option nowadays because they allow patients to improve the alignment of their teeth without having to deal with metal brackets and wires. Treatments with orthodontic appliances can last anywhere between six months to two years.
3. Veneers
These are thin shells that cover the front part of teeth, hiding all the flaws. They can be used to fix several aesthetic issues, including spaces between teeth. The dentist does this by placing oversized veneers on the two teeth closest to the gap. Doing this covers up the space, improving the way that the patient’s smile looks.
The installation of veneers requires removing a layer of enamel that is proportional to the thickness of the veneers being used. This is a permanent process that cannot be reversed in the future. A tooth that has been prepped for veneers will always need a restoration to protect it.
We can fix the gap in your smile
Ready to eliminate the gap in your smile? Call or visit our East Orange clinic for a consultation with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.qualitygentledentalcare.com or call Roman Khodosh DDS PC at (973) 676-2541 for an appointment in our East Orange office.
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