Learn More About
Tooth Gaps

Gaps between teeth, or diastema, are primarily an aesthetic issue and generally not harmful. However, it can potentially lead to problems with chewing and speaking. In some cases, it may also increase the risk of tooth decay or gum disease.

We Can Help You Close That Tooth Gap For a More Beautiful Smile

Many of us have gaps between our teeth, and while some view them as charming, others may feel self-conscious about them. These spaces, called diastema, can form anywhere in the mouth but are sometimes most noticeable between the two upper front teeth.

While some people view tooth gaps as just a cosmetic problem, large gaps can actually cause bite problems. When gaps form in the back teeth, it can throw off your bite and cause problems with chewing. Additionally, tooth gaps can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to cavities and gum disease.

AP Dental is here to help with those pesky tooth gaps. We offer different treatment options, including dental veneers, crowns, clear aligners, and smile makeovers. If you’re unsure which treatment suits you, our team can help you explore your options and choose the most appropriate course of action. Whether you’re looking for a minor adjustment or a complete transformation, AP Dental is here to help.

Common Causes of Tooth Gaps

If the teeth are too small for the jawbone, they may not fit properly and leave gaps.
If you have missing teeth, it’s natural that there will be spaces where those teeth used to be.
Overgrowth of the labial frenum, the tissue that borders your gum line and your two upper front teeth can cause the gum tissue to push away from the teeth, leaving gaps.
Thumb sucking is a common cause of tooth gaps in children. It can cause the teeth to become misaligned and leave spaces between them.
Sometimes, people have an incorrect swallow reflex that causes them to suck their tongue forward between their teeth, creating gaps.
Gum disease can pull the gums away from the teeth, creating spaces between them.

Dental Services that Can Address Tooth Gaps

Frequently Asked Questions about Tooth Gaps

Is it normal for a child to have tooth gaps?

It’s perfectly normal for children to have gaps between their teeth, especially when they’re babies. In most cases, these gaps will close on their own as the child grows and their permanent teeth come in.

How will I know if my tooth gap should be corrected?

Even if you’re not concerned about how your tooth gap looks, it’s important to get them checked out by a dentist. Gaps in your teeth can sometimes indicate a more serious condition like gum disease. They can also mean that you have an improper bite, which can lead to chipped or broken teeth.

What are the problems that may come with a gapped tooth?

You may be concerned about its aesthetics if you have a gapped tooth. However, some functional problems may come with a gapped tooth. For example, gum disease can begin in the gapped area and spread to other parts of your mouth. You may also have bite problems or difficulty chewing if you have a gapped tooth. Additionally, a gapped tooth can cause speech problems.

How long will it take for my tooth gaps to close?

It’s hard to say exactly how long it will take for tooth gaps to close, as it depends on several factors, including the size of the gap, the specific case, and the appropriate treatment. Single small gaps can often be closed in 6–9 months using clear aligners, while multiple gaps may take at least 12 months to close fully. And with ceramic crowns or veneers, you can often achieve results sooner.

Will my tooth gap come back after treatment?

Yes. Teeth tend to revert to their original positions after orthodontic treatment. That’s why it’s important to wear your retainer as your dentist prescribes. Without wearing your retainer, there is a high chance that your tooth gaps will reappear. Other dental issues such as grinding your teeth can also cause your teeth to shift and gaps to appear between them.

Get a Smile that Stands Out

At AP Dental, we are proud to offer a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of our patients. From professional cleanings and dental fillings to more complex procedures, we are here to help you maintain a brighter, healthier smile. Book your appointment today and see the difference our team can make.