Teeth Gap Filling
Dr. D.Sendhil Nathan MDS, DNB Prosthodontics And Implantology
Our ancestors have had gaps in teeth(diastema) since forever. Losing teeth due to poor dental hygiene and oral ailments was quite common. But it doesn’t have to be the same way now! With a rapid increase in the technology innovations in healthcare and the number of people who have access to good dental care, there is no reason why you should subject yourself to the risk of a dental ailment and inconvenience.
How diastema occurs?
- Diastema commonly occurs due to to the misalignment in jaws or because of crowded teeth. Difference between the size in teeth and jaws causes spaces to be present.
- Bad habits like thumb sucking are also one of the major reasons for the existence of gaps between the teeth.
- In some cases, diastema also occurs due to an oversized labial frenum or because of the presence of a gum disease.
It is important to remember that whatever be the cause, it can be treated and the condition rectified with appropriate and timely dental care.
There are myriad options to plug the gaps in your teeth. In this article, let us look at some common options and how to proceed with each one of them:
- Dental bonding: One of the most economical ways to plug the gaps in your teeth, the composite resin that is used is shaped just like the neighbouring teeth to make it as inconspicuous as possible. Whilst composite resins are commonly used to plug spaces, it is also used for aesthetic purposes if the tooth is discoloured. Looking quite similar to your natural teeth, there are no prominent disadvantages in this procedure. But it is vital that you take care of your oral health to maintain the sanctity of the composite resin over a considerable period of time.
One thing to note when it comes to dental bonding is that the composite material is prone to staining when compared to its alternatives and needs to be handled carefully to avoid chipping of the teeth.
- Dental Veneers: Veneers are an alternative to dental bonding and are a bit costlier when compared to dental bonding. There are different types of veneers present. Porcelain veneers are usually preferred because of its texture and colour similarities with the natural tooth.
Whilst they are durable and lasts longer, dental veneers are a permanent solution and the operation cannot be reversed. Small amounts of tooth enamel needs to be removed for the surgery to be performed. Dental veneers are also aesthetically pleasing to the eye and is hence preferred despite the cost by a significant number of people.
- Braces : An orthodontist would also recommend the option of going for braces if you are comfortable with the idea. While there is a common notion that braces are worn by teens, it is far from the truth. Braces nowadays come in all shapes and size ranging from metal braces to invisible aligners. Modern day braces are not only comfortable, they blend comfortably with the oral environment without standing out. Your orthodontist would be the right person to advise you on what type of braces would suit you best depending on the circumstance you are in.
What are you waiting for?
Remember that there are many options to plug the spaces between your teeth and restore your smile. Your dentist would be the right person to advise you on the next steps depending upon your unique situation, preferences and budget. Don’t ever neglect gaps present in your teeth as these gaps are ideal grounds for the proliferation of bacteria.
Your teeth will not only be more aesthetic, but you will be preventing oral infections in the future if you fill the gaps present in your teeth as soon as possible!
