What is the procedure to get rid of a gap between the front two teeth?

Doctor's Answer

Hi Gui Fang,

The treatment options available depends on the size of your gap. A small gap can be closed using braces or white (composite) fillings. A medium gap can be closed with braces, white fillings or crowns. A large gap (the size of a tooth) can be closed with braces and perhaps an additional tooth in the form of a bridge or an implant.

To give you some background, a space or gap between two teeth is a diastema. It can be caused by various factors such as:

  • Teeth and jaw discrepancy
  • Oversized labial frenum (a piece of soft tissue that extends from center of upper lip to the middle of the two upper front teeth)
  • Habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue swallowing reflex
  • Periodontal (gum) disease
  • Transition from primary teeth to permanent teeth (children)

If necessary, the underlying cause will be treated first before proceeding with the treatment to close the gap.

During your consultation with your Prosthodontist/dentist, they will examine your dental condition clinically and radiographically before advising on an appropriate treatment plan.

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