Solutions For A Gap Between Teeth: Lincoln Dental Clinic

Nobody likes having a gap between teeth. The reality is that some people have no choice but to live with it simply because they can not find affordable dental care. Sometimes those who were born with a gap between teeth can find it very difficult to accept his or her smile. While many people are okay with the gap, there are also just as many people who are looking for a permanent fix.

A gap between teeth can make an individual self-conscious and for many obvious reasons. It may be as simple as the look of the gap, or it may be that food gets caught, and is uncomfortable. Although a gap creates a signature look for some, it is vital to know that this gap can become a breeding ground for germs.

Several options can be explored to help close a gap between teeth. There are even options that don’t require braces. While there may be several different ideas on the best options to fix a gap between teeth, we feel the best three options include veneers, orthodontic treatment, and crowns. Read more to find out what makes each option a possible solution for you.

Alternatives to fixing multiple gaps may be offered, but do proceed with caution. If you are trying to fix gaps between all teeth or multiple teeth, do consider all options which will likely include porcelain veneers and orthodontic braces. Porcelain veneers are a seemingly quick option when compared to orthodontic braces and is called instant orthodontics.

On the other hand, orthodontic braces, are an option that can in some cases take a couple of years to close gaps but has proven time and time again that they are effective and can give unparalleled results when compared to many other options. Disadvantages to braces would be cost, length of treatment, and the discomfort of wearing them.

Unfortunately, our dentist in Lincoln, NE knows that because everyone is different, there is no one size fits all treatment plan for fixing a gap between teeth but do know that there is undoubtedly an option that will work for you. Here are a few of the options from your Lincoln Dental Clinic simplified to help in understanding how they can close a gap between teeth:

An illustration of a dental veneer that can be done at a Lincoln Dental Clinic who is part of Nebraska Family Dentistry.

Dental Veneers

Veneers are typically made of high-grade porcelain and are as thin as contact lenses. Veneers on teeth are bonded directly to the front of the tooth and in order to bond the veneer, a small portion of the front side of the tooth must be removed. This particular solution is excellent for closing multiple gaps in a timely manner because they can be bonded directly to a tooth with minimal drilling. Also, this option will blend in beautifully with surrounding teeth. Veneers teeth can create that “perfect smile” because they resist discoloration and staining, too. So, in addition to closing gaps, a whiter and brighter smile, a veneers dentist in Lincoln, NE can also make teeth appear perfectly symmetrical. If you are looking for dental veneers near me or dental veneers cost, call or email our Lincoln Dental clinic today.

Implants

If the gap is too big, a dental implant is a great option. Once your dental implants procedure is complete, they will give you a functional and natural looking smile. If you are looking for a dental implants dentist in Lincoln, NE or dental implants cost, call or email our Lincoln Dental clinic today. We work closely with dental professionals at Nebraska Oral & Facial Surgery.

Crowns

Dental crowns are a “cap” for a tooth and cover the majority of the tooth itself. Our dental crowns are made with a strong dental crown material that lasts a long time. Crowns are a great option to help deal with decay or damage caused by trauma. If you are looking for dental crown near me or dental crown cost, contact our dentist in Lincoln, NE today.

Orthodontic Treatment

Multiple gaps between teeth can be corrected with orthodontic braces. By moving the teeth closer together over time, and in some cases up to two years, it will close any spaces between the teeth. The advantage of braces is that there is nothing artificial that is left attached to the teeth. Theoretically, this is healthier. Disadvantages of braces include the cost, the length of treatment, and the discomfort of wearing braces. Your Lincoln Dental Clinic can always guide you in the right direction and make recommendations so that you know you are choosing the treatment that is best for you.

Here are some general scenarios for gaps that exist between:

Front and Side gap between teeth pfd blue lincoln ne

Front and Side Teeth:

The first option is for a gap that may be present between your front teeth or your front and side teeth. The side teeth, also known as the lateral incisors, are skinny and rectangular in shape. For this particular scenario, whether it be just the front two teeth or the front and side teeth, counterbalancing the smile and its proportions may be a great idea. The best option for this is with cosmetic veneers.

Canines on One Side:

Gaps between the canines are common, and there may be a couple of different situations that could occur. It may be that adult canine is in a hard to reach place or it may be that the baby canine is still present. Either way, discussing a gap between your canines with your dentist in Lincoln, NE could turn up a few possible, very effective solutions.

Front Teeth:

Having a gap between teeth, especially the front two, is probably one of the most common scenarios and can happen for many reasons. One possible reason is that the front two teeth could be smaller than usual. While there may be several options for fixing this particular problem, the best treatment option will ultimately depend upon the severity of the gap and your desired results.

It is highly possible that the gap is there because of a small bit of gum tissue called the frenum. This piece of tissue can prevent the teeth from moving closer together, and it is possible it may need to be removed.

All Teeth:

Having a gap between all of your teeth is something that can happen and often does because when compared to the jaw, the teeth are too small. In this scenario, you may need to start with an orthodontic treatment and then to consider dental veneers.

Before and After

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Some commonly asked questions about a gap between teeth are:

How do you treat diastema naturally?

One easy way is to leave it. You may be better off letting the gap be if it is not causing you any problems. After all, plenty of people, even famous people, have gaps.
As stated above, porcelain veneers are a good option.

How long do veneers last?

The lifespan of veneers can vary. Typically, the amount of time a veneer lasts can depend on many factors, but the biggest one is often oral habits. Typically, veneers can last up to 40 years before needing to be replaced if great home care routine is followed.

Why am I getting gaps between my teeth?

If you have a gap that was caused by periodontal disease, then you will need to see a dentist in Lincoln, NE at our Lincoln Dental Clinic for periodontal treatment. Once gum health is restored, often braces or veneers can be used to help close any gaps.

How can I fix a gap in my teeth myself? Do I need to vist a Lincoln Dental Clinic?

Retainer: One of the ways to close a gap is a retainer from online dental stores but this is not always a great option.

Ultimately, there are several options, but it is always best to discuss any potential concerns, even gaps, with your Lincoln dentist. At-home, do-it-yourself fixes, are not recommended. We know that it can be hard to find affordable dental care, and that’s why Nebraska Family Dentistry offers several different payment options so that you can have the smile of your dreams!

This article was written by Dr. Kathryn Alderman who can be found at the East location of Nebraska Family Dentistry, Preserve Family Dentistry.

Dr. Kathryn is a compassionate and gentle Lincoln dentist with an emphasis cosmetic dentistry. Schedule online 24/7 to meet this caring, gentle Lincoln dentist. Nebraska Family Dentistry and Dr. Kathryn Alderman promise to provide you with the best that dentistry has to offer.