If you have a space between your teeth that you
are uncomfortable with, it may be time to have it corrected to
improve your self-image.
The cause of spacing may be heredity or some
personal habit like tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, abnormal
swallowing, etc. Another cause in adults is advanced gum disease,
leading to loss of supporting bone and the teeth spreading out.
The cause of the spacing can determine the technique used for
correction.
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Orthodontics,
or wearing braces as this treatment is commonly called,
is the option used when the person is young (below 30)
and the natural teeth are intact and normal in size and
shape. The disadvantage is the length of time it takes to
accomplish the desired results. It is a relatively
permanent treatment provided the patient has worn the
retainers long enough to stabilize the teeth that have
been moved. |
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Bonding
is a highly effective treatment for spacing of teeth when
used as a semi-permanent solution. Composite resin is a
plastic material that can be applied to the teeth in a
single visit and the result obtained immediately.
However, bonded teeth are susceptible to chipping,
cracking and staining. The material is expected to last 3
- 5 years. |
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Using Veneers
to treat spacing of teeth is a long lasting solution and
is especially effective when spaces are not uniform. The
ceramic material used to construct veneers is much
stronger than resin and gives a very natural and
life-like appearance to the treated teeth. The
disadvantage is the higher cost of the procedure. |
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Crowning a
tooth to close a space can be considered to be an
overkill, unless the tooth needs a crown for other
reasons. It involves more time and additional cost. The
natural tooth has to be reduced to a particular shape and
to make space for the crown. It is a very long lasting
solution and can give a very pleasing result. |
