If you have gaps between your teeth, you might feel self-conscious about the appearance of your smile. In addition to aesthetic concerns, large gaps in your smile can also be traps for food particles, bacteria, and plaque, making you more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Luckily, there are different orthodontic treatments available to reduce or even close the gaps in your smile.
Clear Aligners
Clear plastic aligner trays, such as Invisalign, can be used to correct many different dental alignment and spacing issues, including gaps between teeth. While small gaps can be fixed with other procedures like dental bonding or veneers, Invisalign can help reduce larger spaces between teeth. Your aligners will be custom-fitted to your teeth, and you will progress to a new tray every one or two weeks until you have completed the series and achieved your straightening or spacing goals. These aligner trays are made with durable, clear plastic that is virtually invisible, making this a great option for teenagers and adults who want to close the gaps between their teeth but would rather not wear traditional metal braces.
Retainers
If you had braces when you were younger, your orthodontist may have suggested wearing a retainer to prevent your teeth from reverting back to a misaligned position. Whether you neglected to wear your retainer after completing orthodontic treatment with traditional braces or clear aligners, or your teeth have shifted over time due to losing one or more teeth from an injury or decay, your teeth can shift position and create gaps in your smile. Wearing a retainer is a cost-effective, minimally invasive way to reduce gaps between your teeth. Removable retainers are easy to clean and care for, and can be used to fix small gaps. Larger gaps may require the use of a fixed retainer, which cannot be removed except in our office.
Whether you have small or large gaps between your teeth, we can help. Call us today to discuss options for perfecting your smile.
