Gaps between teeth, medically termed diastema, are a common dental condition affecting individuals worldwide. While most individuals live with these gaps by embracing them as part of their peculiar smile, others consult dental treatments to close the gaps. But the question remains: must they be filled, or can they be left untreated without harm?
Understanding the Causes
This is called a diastema, and it can result from genetics, having an abnormally large labial frenum-the tissue that connects the upper lip to your gums-or even a habit, such as thumb-sucking, as a child. Sometimes the missing teeth, or sometimes it's a mismatch in the size of your jaws and teeth, leads to these gaps. These elastics hold the spaces open for later orthodontic bands and can also widen the jaws slightly.
Indication for Treatment: Many people decide to close their gaps for aesthetic purposes. A gap that is very conspicuous, particularly at the front, may make a person lose his or her confidence and self-esteem. This is the reason one may look into orthodontic treatments with the help of braces or aligners. Besides aesthetic appeal, big gaps may interfere with the normal function of the person, such as hindering proper chewing or even sometimes creating speech problems. These big gaps are most likely to get the gum vulnerable to periodontal disease because food may easily get stuck, causing plaque buildup.
How you have highlighted both the aesthetic and functional aspects of diastema. It's so important for individuals to weigh their comfort and preferences when deciding whether to pursue treatment. Some embrace their gaps as a unique part of their smile, while others may opt for treatment to improve functionality or boost self-confidence. Either way regular dental checkups are essential to ensure that untreated gaps don’t cause future issues.Dr. Mohammed Shagil, Dentist, Elias Dental Clinic, Kozhikode, Kerala, India, Medical Advisor, Linkedin's Top Voice
Treatment Options
There isn't a single way through which the gaps between the teeth are closed; each of them has their merits and demerits:
Braces or Aligners: Traditional braces or invisible aligners, such as Invisalign, can be used to shift the teeth gradually and close the gaps. This is indicated when a patient has several gaps or other issues of alignment in their teeth.
Restorations: Gaps may also be masked by adding dental material to the teeth through dental bonding or veneers. This is somewhat quicker than the use of braces but may not be appropriate when gaps are quite large.
Bridges or implants: When the gaps are between teeth that are missing, a dentist may suggest dental bridges or dental implants that will replace the missing tooth by filling up the gap.
When to Leave the Gap
Not every gap needs to be filled. If the diastema is minimal and poses no functional discomfort, it may be allowed to remain as is. Many patients prefer a natural gap between their teeth since that is what gives their smile a unique character. Of course, regular dental check-ups are important so the gap will not result in problems.
Whether a gap should or should not be closed is very subjective and can thus be decided upon for personal reasons or particular situations. Though some people choose treatment for aesthetic or functional improvement, others may wear their anatomic uniqueness with pride and integrate it into their unique smile. Ultimately, whether this treatment is right for them can be discussed with an individual who needs it and likes the look of a certain outcome with a dental professional.
(Rehash/Dr. Prerna Lal/MSM)