Causes of Gap Teeth

Gap teeth, also known as diastema, are a common cosmetic dental problem that affects many people both young and old. But what are the causes of gap teeth and how can they be fixed? If you or a loved one is unhappy with the way your smile looks due to gap teeth, Dr. Kris O'Neill of O'Neill Family Dentistry may be able to help with expertise in cosmetic dentistry in Columbia, SC.

Causes of Gap Teeth

There may be many different causes of gap teeth, so if you are unsure of yours it is best to first consult with a dental professional. However, some of the most common causes of gap teeth include thumb sucking, trauma to the mouth, small teeth, extra or missing teeth, gum disease, or abnormal frenulum. The fraenum is a fold of skin inside the upper lip that attaches the lip to the upper gum. If your fraenum sits lower than usual or is too large, these can be common causes of gap teeth.

Gap teeth can cause some negative effects on both children and adults alike. Aesthetically, some people may be embarrassed at the way their smile looks due to the gap. Cosmetic dentistry in Columbia, SC, aims to restore people's confidence in their smiles by reversing these negative effects of gap teeth. In terms of the structure of a person's mouth, a large gap between teeth may result in crowded or crooked teeth in the rest of the mouth, which can create problems with chewing, biting, and proper oral hygiene.

Treatment For Gap Teeth

If you are worried about the effects gap teeth may have on you or a loved one's self-confidence or oral health, it may be time to consider cosmetic dentistry in Columbia, SC. Dr. O'Neill of O'Neill Family Dentistry is here to help find the cause of your gap teeth and come up with a treatment option that is right for you! Some common treatment options for gap teeth may include veneers, braces, or invisible aligners, depending on the cause of your gap teeth. For more information or to make an appointment today, please call O'Neill Family Dentistry at (803) 988-1070.