What do Sir Elton John, Arnold Schwarzenegger, David Letterman, and Madonna have in common? They are all proud wearers of diastemas. Diastema is the clinical term for a space between two or more teeth. Diastemas are most obvious when they occur prominently between the top two front teeth. While the aforementioned public figures may flaunt their tooth gaps in pride, many people are uncomfortable that they have significant spaces in their smile. Sheridan dentist, Dr. Donald Coon will tell you what you can do if you want to bridge your gaps.
Definition of a Diastema
What do you think causes spaces in some people’s teeth? Many are born with significant gaps in their baby teeth. As permanent teeth come in, they’re much larger, so those gaps generally close. However, if the gaps are too large, or the incoming teeth are too tiny, a size discrepancy will cause spaces between certain teeth. In the case of your upper front teeth, the gap is often caused by the piece of skin attaching your gums to your lip, which is called a labial frenulum. This can be easily fixed with a small surgical procedure known as a maxillary frenectomy. Occasionally, misalignment or protrusion (bucking) of your teeth are also causes of a diastema, requiring various orthodontic and/or surgical treatments for cosmetics and function.
Minding the Gaps in Teeth
If you are unhappy with the way your smile appears because of gaps in between two or more teeth, consult with Dr. Coon. The cause of your diastema must be determined in order for a proper treatment recommendation to be made. Traditional braces, or clear options such as Invisalign will help in certain cases. Porcelain veneers or dental bonding can cover up gaps in your smile. Finally, if a gap is significant, bridge work, crowns, and dental implants are all possible ways to make your teeth appear seamlessly spaced.
Visit your Sheridan, WY Dentist
Are you concerned with spaces in your teeth? Visit Dr. Coon to consult about any troubled areas in your smile. Contact Grinnell Street Dental in Sheridan, WY at (307) 672-7567 to schedule your appointment.
