June 12, 2025
Got a noticeable gap between your teeth and wondering if it’s a big deal—or just a quirky part of your smile? Whether it’s a small space or a visible front gap that makes you feel self-conscious, orthodontic treatment could be the key to closing it for good.
At Freshdental, we regularly treat patients concerned about gaps in their teeth, and the good news is: you're not stuck with them forever. Let’s explore what causes gaps between teeth, why they matter more than you might think, and how orthodontics can help close the gap—literally and figuratively.
Gaps between teeth, also known as diastema, are spaces or openings between two or more teeth. The most common is the gap between the upper front teeth, but they can occur anywhere in the mouth.
For some people, gaps are purely cosmetic. For others, they might signal something deeper going on—like jaw size imbalance or missing teeth. Regardless, modern orthodontics offers safe, effective solutions.
You may have a gap for one of many reasons. Let’s break down the most common causes:
1. Jaw and Tooth Size Mismatch: If your jaw is too large for your teeth, there may be extra space, which leads to gaps. This is often genetic.
2. Missing or Small Teeth: Sometimes certain teeth don’t develop or are smaller than average, leaving a gap.
3. Habits in Childhood: Prolonged thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or prolonged dummy use can cause teeth to shift, leaving a space.
4. Gum Disease: In advanced stages, gum disease can cause the bone around teeth to weaken, leading to shifting and gaps.
5. Frenulum Issues: The labial frenulum (the bit of tissue connecting your lip to your gums) may be oversized and push the teeth apart.
Not always—but sometimes they are. It depends on the cause, location, and whether the gap affects your oral health or confidence.
When It’s Just Cosmetic
Many people embrace their tooth gap as part of their smile's character. If you’re happy with it and there are no health issues, it’s fine to leave it.
When It’s a Health Concern
However, some gaps can lead to:
- Bite issues
- Speech difficulties
- Shifting of surrounding teeth
- Increased plaque buildup
- Higher risk of gum disease
In these cases, it's important to seek treatment.
Absolutely. In fact, orthodontics is often the best and most effective way to close unwanted gaps between teeth. Here’s how Freshdental can help:
1. Clear Aligners (e.g. Invisalign®): Clear, removable, and practically invisible—clear aligners are a fantastic option for mild to moderate spacing issues. Custom trays are worn over your teeth, gradually guiding them into the right position. Perfect for adults and teens who want subtle yet effective treatment.
2. Traditional Braces: For larger gaps or complex spacing issues, metal braces are still incredibly effective. They allow for more precise control over movement.
3. Ceramic Braces: Similar to metal braces but more discreet—ceramic braces use tooth-coloured brackets that blend in with your teeth.
4. Retainers (Post-Treatment): After your gap is closed, it’s vital to wear a retainer to stop the teeth from drifting back.
In some cosmetic cases, small gaps can be closed using composite bonding or porcelain veneers. These don’t move your teeth—they just mask the gap. At Freshdental, we’ll help you decide if orthodontics or cosmetic treatment is more appropriate.
Let’s be real—a gap can mess with your confidence. Whether you're hesitant to smile, speak in public, or appear in photos, it can take a toll on your self-esteem.
Our patients often say that closing their gap gave them a massive confidence boost, helping them feel more comfortable in their skin—and in front of the camera.
Treatment duration depends on the size of the gap and the method used. At Freshdental, we’ll assess your gap, jaw alignment, and smile goals to create a tailored plan just for you.
Q: Can gaps reopen after treatment?
A: Yes, if you don’t wear your retainer. At Freshdental, we provide custom retainers and follow-ups to help keep your teeth in place long-term.
Q: Is it painful to close a gap?
A: Not really. Some mild discomfort is normal in the first few days of wearing aligners or braces, but it usually goes away quickly.
Q: Will insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
A: It depends on your policy. Many insurance plans cover part of orthodontic treatment if it’s for health reasons. Our team can help check your benefits.
Q: Do kids grow out of tooth gaps?
A: Sometimes. Gaps in young children often close naturally when adult teeth come in. But if gaps persist into the teen years, orthodontic treatment may be needed.
Q: Can I choose between aligners and braces?
A: Yes, and we’ll help you decide! At Freshdental, we offer both options and will recommend the best one based on your specific needs and lifestyle.
Smile with confidence, not with hesitation. Whether you prefer clear aligners or braces, Freshdental is here to guide you through every step.
Call us or book online now.
I have just completed Invisalign treatment here and am thrilled with the results.
I have been seeing Monik at Freshdental for a while now and couldn't be happier with the service. I have just completed Invisalign treatment here and am thrilled with the results. Have recommended Monik to many of my friends & family and will continue to do to.
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