If you have gapped teeth, also known as "dents du bonheur" or diastema, you may be wondering how to correct it. This unique characteristic can add charm to your smile, but it can also raise questions. In this article, we will explain the origin and different solutions for correcting gapped teeth.

The origin of gapped teeth

Before addressing the solutions, it is essential to understand why teeth gap. The reasons can be:

• Heredity: Heredity plays an essential role in the configuration of our teeth. If several members of your family have diastemas, there is a high chance that you have a genetic predisposition to develop this space between your teeth.

• Disproportionate teeth: When teeth are naturally smaller than the size of the jaw, they can leave gaps between them, creating a diastema.

• Bad habits: Some habits acquired during childhood, such as thumb sucking or exerting excessive pressure with the tongue against the teeth, can influence the formation of a diastema.

• Premature loss of teeth: The premature loss of baby teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, thus promoting the creation of diastemas.

• Bad occlusion: Bad occlusion, meaning poor alignment, can also contribute to the appearance of diastemas.

The solutions for correcting gapped teeth

Now, let's see what are the ways to correct gapped teeth simply.

1. Braces

Braces are a traditional and long-term solution for correcting dental problems by gradually moving teeth over a period of a few months to a few years, depending on the severity of the case. They are effective in treating complex problems, offering precise and visible results. However, they require regular maintenance and adjustments.

2. Invisible aligners

On the other hand, invisible aligners, such as Invisalign, offer a discreet option. These transparent trays gently move teeth and are easy to maintain. However, they are more expensive than traditional braces and are not suitable for highly complex problems. It is crucial to strictly follow the recommendations for wearing them.

3. Dental crowns

For cases of very gapped or damaged teeth, dental crowns are necessary. They are placed over teeth to restore their shape and solidity, offering a complete solution for diastema problems, malalignment, and damaged teeth. Although they last long, the procedure is more invasive and involves a reduction of the original tooth, in addition to being quite expensive.

4. Dental veneers

Finally, for a quick aesthetic solution, dental veneers are an option. These thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin are bonded to the surface of teeth to hide imperfections, including gaps. They offer a quick aesthetic correction with less necessary dental preparation. However, they are not suitable for serious problems and can be fragile because they are bonded to the surface of the teeth, in addition to having a high cost depending on the material used.

Conclusion

If you have gapped teeth, there are several solutions to solve this problem. Orthodontics is the traditional method that offers precise results but may take time. Invisible aligners are also very effective, but their cost is high. Dental veneers offer a quick aesthetic solution, while dental crowns are reserved for more serious cases. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is essential to consult your dentist or contact our specialists to determine the best approach for your particular situation.