How to Fix Gaps in Teeth
Do you have gaps between your teeth that you’d like to have fixed? If so, you’ll be happy to know that at Smile Hilliard, we fix gaps all the time. In fact, we have several different ways we can do so. Read on to learn the different methods we use to treat gaps between teeth.
How Are Smaller Gaps Treated?
It is important for a patient to discuss all options together with their dentist to ensure the outcome is ideal. Simply filling a gap between two teeth won’t necessarily result in a natural shape of the tooth. Treatment plans will vary based on the size of the gap, but there are two primary treatments we use for patients with smaller gaps:
- Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding is a very simple procedure that can be completed in as little as one visit. This option is best for younger patients, as it does not last as long as veneers. However, it is a more cost-effective solution.
With cosmetic bonding, we will choose a composite color that matches your existing teeth. The composite will be applied to your teeth with a liquid adhesive before being hardened with a UV light. Afterward, it will be polished to a nice shine, so it resembles the surrounding teeth.
- Porcelain Veneers
During the veneers process, we’ll prepare your existing teeth by removing some of the enamel, so there’s space for the veneers. In some cases, this step isn’t necessary.
Once the surface of your natural teeth has been prepared, thin porcelain veneers will be permanently cemented to your teeth. These veneers are extremely durable and typically last anywhere from 7 to 15 years. While more expensive than bonding, veneers last longer and tend to look more like your natural teeth.
How Are Larger Gaps Treated?
With larger gaps, we typically recommend:
- Dental Implants
Dental implants are the next best thing to your natural teeth. With dental implants, a titanium implant is affixed into your jawbone. An abutment sits on top of that implant. That’s what the crown—the part that looks like a tooth—is attached to.
Although dental implants do a great job eliminating large gaps, they’re not always right for everyone. For instance, unhealthy gums affect the longevity of dental implants. So, if you have gum disease, you may have to improve the health of your gums prior to receiving an implant—and then maintain good gum health going forward.
- Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a great option for patients who have larger gaps between their teeth. During the dental bridge procedure, we place crowns on the teeth that are adjacent to the gap. A dental bridge is then anchored to those crowns.
Patients sometimes opt for dental bridges because not only do they do a great job of eliminating gaps, but they’re also more affordable than dental implants.
Additionally, some people might require orthodontic work in order to fix a gap. During your consultation, we will discuss all of these options and recommend a treatment plan that is unique to your smile.
I’d Like to Fix a Gap in My Teeth. How Can I Schedule a Consultation?
We’d be happy to look at your teeth and make a treatment recommendation. To schedule a consultation, you can use our online scheduler or call our office at 614.534.0257. We are located at 6304 Scioto Darby Road in Hilliard and offer early morning office hours for your convenience.
