So who doesn’t want a perfect set of teeth? Unfortunately, though, not all of us are naturally gifted with a TV commercial-ready set of pearly whites. People who suffer from diastema or a tooth gap, for example, may feel extra self-conscious because the apparent imperfection of their teeth is too apparent to hide.

Good things there are ways to work around tooth gaps. There are braces, retainers and then there’s Invisalign®. While most people are already familiar with braces and retainers, many are still unsure about Invisalign®.

For more information about teeth gaps and Invisalign® as well as the advantages of going for one if you do have diastema, we’ve asked a Sterling Heights dentist to explain why closing teeth gap with Invisalign® makes good sense.

What causes people to have teeth gap?

There are various possible underlying causes as to why some people suffer from diastema or a tooth gap. The most common ones involve physiological or congenital birth conditions causes such as having teeth that are too small to fill the jaw bone. Some people are born with missing teeth or even an oversized labial frenum which leads to gaps in between teeth.

Acquired causes leading to tooth gaps include thumb sucking, an incorrect swallowing reflex (people who suffer from “tongue thrust”), and gum problems that can result in bone loss.

 Closing Teeth Gap with Invisalign®

Just like braces, Invisalign® is designed to close gaps in between teeth. By using dental X-rays, images and some impressions, your dentist can create a precise 3D image to come up with an accurate configuration for your Invisalign® aligner trays.

While cost is always a factor, consider the following advantages that come with closing teeth gap with Invisalign®:

• Clear, so they are virtually undetectable.

• Removable so you don’t have to be concerned about getting food trapped in them while you eat.

• Does not affect eating, which you can do relatively pain-free.

•  You do not suffer from sores, pain or discomfort, unlike in the case of braces.

• Treatment time is significantly much shorter – about 6-18 months, depending on the patient’s case.

 

If you suffer from diastema, be sure to check with Dr. Farhat so he can give you a treatment plan.