Table of Contents
- What Is a Dental Diastema?
- Schedule an Appointment Today
- What Treatment for a Diastema?
- Interincisal Diastema in Orthodontics
- Causes of a Diastema
- Closing an Interincisal Diastema with Dental Jewelry
- Alternative Solutions to Close the Gap
- Composite Resin
- Frenectomy
- Orthodontic Braces
- Dental Aligners
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Diastema?
An interdental diastema is an excessively large gap between two teeth. The most common form is the interincisal diastema , also known as "lucky teeth." Some consider this gap attractive, but many wish to correct it through orthodontic treatments such as aligners or braces.
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How to Get Rid of Gaps in Teeth?
Closing a diastema is a common reason to consult a dentist or orthodontist. It is often seen in children. It is not a disease, but an alignment issue that can be corrected with cosmetic and orthodontic treatments.
Interincisal Diastema in Orthodontics
The gap between the upper incisors is very noticeable and is located between the two top teeth. Adults often treat this defect for aesthetic reasons.
The Causes of a Diastema
Several factors can cause an interincisal diastema:
• Dental Agenesis : A missing tooth leaves a large gap.
• Labial Frenum : A small muscle between the incisors creates a gap.
• Microdontia : A tooth that is too small does not fill the dental arch.
• Prolonged Sucking : Thumb sucking pushes the tooth forward and creates a gap. This habit should be stopped early.
• Trauma : Shocks or bone fractures can cause the teeth to shift.
• Gum Diseases : These cause undesirable tooth movements.
Closing an Interincisal Diastema with Dental Jewelry
Closing an interincisal diastema with dental jewelry is a purely cosmetic solution, but it does not correct the underlying problem as orthodontic treatment would. Here’s how it can be done:
1. Choosing the Right Dental Jewelry
- Size and Shape: Choose a piece that is wide enough to mask part of the gap without being too bulky.
- Material: Gold, diamond, or Swarovski crystals are popular choices for optimal aesthetic effect.
- Design: Some opt for a discreet rhinestone, while others prefer more personalized designs (e.g., a horizontal bar or small stars along the edges).
2. Application Technique
A cosmetic dentist will apply the jewelry following these steps:
- Clean the dental surface to remove plaque and ensure proper adhesion.
- Lightly etch the enamel with a mild acid to create an adhesive surface.
- Apply a bonding agent and a special dental adhesive.
- Fix the jewelry and cure it with a UV light.
3. Results and Limitations
✅ Advantages:
- Quick and painless solution.
- Stylish and unique effect.
- Reversible: the jewelry can be removed without damaging the teeth.
❌ Disadvantages:
- Does not actually reduce the gap between the teeth.
- May lead to plaque buildup if not properly maintained.
- Risk of detachment if the adhesive is not properly applied or if the person consumes very hard foods.
Alternative Solutions to Close the Gap
This condition is common and easy to treat. Traditional braces or dental aligners are often used to correct the gap.
Composite Resin:
Frenectomy
If the labial frenum is causing problems, the dentist can perform a frenectomy. This procedure removes the excess tissue through a minor intervention performed in the dental chair under local anesthesia. Healing occurs quickly, and orthodontic treatment begins afterward.
Orthodontic Braces
Braces correct alignment issues. An orthodontist installs these appliances to achieve a harmonious and healthy smile.
Dental Aligners
Clear dental trays, such as Invisalign, quickly close small gaps. The treatment requires a few appointments with a certified dentist. These aligners are custom-made from digital impressions. The duration of the treatment depends on the complexity of the case, followed by a retention phase to consolidate the results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a diastema?
An interincisal diastema is a large gap between two teeth, often the central incisors. Some find it attractive, while others prefer to close it.
What is this gap called?
It is called a dental diastema or interincisal diastema, also known as "lucky teeth."
Where does the term "lucky teeth" come from?
During the Napoleonic wars, this gap was noted in recruits, and the term "lucky teeth" was coined.
Can teeth naturally be tightened?
There is no natural solution. Only orthodontic treatment can close this gap. Do not try to do it yourself.
Why do my teeth drift apart?
Periodontal diseases can cause gaps between the teeth. Poor follow-up on retention after orthodontic treatment can also lead to recurrence.
How long does the correction take?
The treatment duration varies according to the complexity. For simple cases, a few months are sufficient. Discuss with your dentist.
What is the cost of clear aligners?
Treatment starts at around €1500-2000 for simple cases. The price increases with duration and complexity.
What are the other options?
You can also consider dental veneers or composites.
• Dental Veneers : They cost as much as orthodontic treatment and quickly mask the diastema without correcting it.
• Dental Composites : They are less expensive, but do not last long and may chip or stain.
Frenectomy
If the labial frenum is problematic, the dentist can perform a frenectomy. The excess tissue is removed through a small procedure performed in the dental chair under local anesthesia. Healing is rapid and orthodontic treatment begins afterward.
Orthodontic Braces
Braces correct alignment defects. An orthodontist installs this appliance to achieve a harmonious and healthy smile.
Dental Aligners
Clear dental trays, such as Invisalign, quickly close small gaps. The treatment requires a few appointments with a certified dentist. The trays are custom-made from digital impressions. The treatment duration depends on the case's complexity, followed by a retention phase to secure the results.
Before you Go!
Schedule an Appointment Today
To determine which solution suits you best, schedule an appointment with us. A perfect smile is within reach!
Contact us via WhatsApp for more information:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a diastema?
An interincisal diastema is a large gap between two teeth, often the central incisors. Some consider it attractive, while others prefer to close it.
What is this gap called?
It is called a dental diastema or interincisal diastema, also known as "lucky teeth."
Where does the term "lucky teeth" come from?
During the Napoleonic wars, this gap was observed in recruits, leading to the term "lucky teeth."
Can teeth naturally be tightened?
There is no natural solution. Only orthodontic treatment can close this gap. Do not attempt to do it yourself.
Why do my teeth drift apart?
Periodontal diseases can cause gaps between the teeth. Poor retention after orthodontic treatment can also lead to recurrence.
How long does the correction take?
The duration of treatment varies according to the complexity. For simple cases, a few months are sufficient. Consult your dentist for details.
What is the cost of clear aligners?
Treatment starts around €1500-2000 for simple cases. The price increases with the duration and complexity of the case.
What are the other options?
Other options include dental veneers or composites.
• Dental Veneers : They cost as much as orthodontic treatment and quickly conceal the diastema without correcting it.
• Composite Veneers : They are less expensive, but do not last long and may chip or stain.
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