Gap teeth are a common dental issue where you have unwanted space between two or more teeth. This condition is also known as a diastema. If you do not treat it promptly, gapped teeth can cause spacing problems between your teeth, where food can get stuck. It could also make your gums sore and tender or cause gum disease. Fortunately, it is possible to use Invisalign to treat teeth gaps.
What Are Tooth Gaps?
Tooth gaps are spaces between the teeth and are medically known as diastema. These gaps can be minimal or significant and happen for numerous reasons, such as:
- Natural causes, such as baby teeth not shifting
- Overly large jaws
- Teeth that are missing
- Size of the individual’s teeth
Besides the potential lowered confidence, tooth gaps may cause problems if you do not fix them. The most significant issue would be the crowding of other teeth. If the teeth causing these spaces do not move, surrounding teeth may come in and cause discomfort and crowding.
Problems with the person’s jaw or bite can also occur. Tooth gaps may close on their own in younger children.
Can Invisalign Clear Aligners Help With Gaps Between Teeth?
Yes, the good news is that Invisalign can fix these spaces. Smaller gaps may only take a few months to close, while gaps in teeth that are significantly larger will take longer. Each treatment plan will vary on a case-by-case basis. Other treatments, such as veneers or bonding, may be used alongside Invisalign in more severe spaces. Dr. Ayoub will decide what will work best for your situation.
After Invisalign Treatment To Keep Teeth Gaps Closed
What’s next after the gaps close and you complete your Invisalign treatment? Our Huntington Long Island cosmetic dentist, Dr. Joseph Ayoub will evaluate your teeth and check that your treatment has progressed according to your personalized plan.
You will likely be required to wear a retainer to keep the gaps closed and your teeth in place. This retainer holds your teeth from moving back. The timeframe for wearing the retainer will vary depending on your specific case. Be sure to wear the retainer exactly how our Invisalign provider, Dr. Joseph Ayoub, explains during your appointment so you don’t undo all the work.
Benefits Of Fixing Gap Teeth with Invisalign
Yes, Invisalign can fix gaps between teeth. First, you will need a consultation with our South Huntington dentist, Dr. Joe Ayoub, to examine your teeth and determine the type of Invisalign treatment most suitable for your situation. The benefits and advantages of using Invisalign for gaps include:
- Improve self-esteem: Closing gaps in your teeth will give you a better smile. This change can increase your confidence and make you feel more comfortable, enabling you to smile while taking pictures and meeting people.
- Adequate oral hygiene: You will remove the Invisalign clear aligners whenever you want to eat or brush your teeth. By doing this, your teeth will be free of food particles and will not get trapped between them.
- Personalized treatment plan: Invisalign clear aligners are designed to fit your teeth. The aligners are created after making a 3D impression of each tooth; they will fit your teeth perfectly.
- Comfortable: Invisalign clear aligners feel comfortable. Unlike traditional braces, no metal wires, elastics, or plates exist.
- Discreet: The clear aligners will be virtually invisible during the treatment period.