What Orthodontic Treatments Get Rid of Gaps in Teeth?
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Diastema is a term that describes a gap between two teeth. Although gaps usually appear between the two front teeth, it is possible for a diastema to occur anywhere. If your gap is making you feel embarrassed or self-conscious, you may be wondering if dental treatments could help. MINT orthodontics in the Dallas and Fort Worth Metroplex area is proud to offer a range of orthodontic treatments to address gaps and more. Improve your smile by reaching out for a consultation today.
What causes gaps in the teeth?
Spaces or gaps between the teeth are actually common and are not necessarily harmful on their own. However, wide gaps can interrupt teeth alignment and cause the adjacent teeth to shift. This could lead to overcrowded teeth and problems chewing or biting down. Some patients experience pain or bleeding as a result of their gaps. Others may feel anxious about the appearance of their teeth, especially if the gap is in a noticeable location. This prevents them from showing off their smile in public. Gapped teeth are usually the result of:
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Genetics
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Missing teeth
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Undersized teeth
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Habits like thumb sucking
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Loss of primary teeth (in children and adolescents)
Orthodontic options for treatment
As you can see, teeth alignment is a serious issue. If you are conscious about the gaps between your teeth, orthodontic treatment is designed to move teeth into proper alignment and close the gaps. Your orthodontist at MINT orthodontics can perform an examination and understand why the gap occurred in the first place. We then create a custom teeth-straightening plan together. Both Invisalign® and traditional metal braces carry many cosmetic and health benefits for your smile.
Invisalign for gaps in teeth
The most popular choice when it comes to orthodontic treatment is Invisalign. Invisalign shifts teeth into the right position through clear plastic aligners. These aligners are custom-made to fit perfectly in your mouth. Patients get new trays every few weeks, and they are virtually unnoticeable. Clear teeth-straightening aligners generally work best for minor gaps in between the teeth. How long you will wear your aligners depends on your teeth and specific goals. Most patients expect to use Invisalign for an average of 10 – 18 months in Dallas and Fort Worth, TX.
Braces for gaps in teeth
The most common orthodontic appliance to fix gaps in the teeth is traditional metal braces. These appliances use metal brackets and an arch wire to pull the teeth where they need to go. After removing the braces, most patients need to wear a retainer while sleeping. Traditional braces are a better teeth-straightening option for individuals with a moderate to severe gap in their smile. Metal braces can be worn from six months to a year based on the size of the gap. At your consultation, your orthodontist can discuss how long they need to be worn.
Teeth-straightening options in Dallas and Fort Worth, TX
Your smile is an important part of yourself. However, many people hide their smile because of the spaces between their teeth. Not only that, but gaps could also affect the health of your smile. The good news is that orthodontic treatments can easily accomplish proper teeth alignment and more. To discuss Invisalign and traditional metal braces, contact MINT orthodontics in the Dallas and Fort Worth Metroplex area. Our staff is dedicated to helping you feel good about your smile again.