While the gap between your front teeth, known as a diastema, may have been cute when you were little, it's quickly losing its charm and causing you to question whether you should get it fixed. Below is an overview of available treatment options for daistema, the postivies and negatives of treatment, and when seeking treatment may be in your best interests. 

What Treatment Options are Available? 

There are a variety of treatment options available and the treatment chosen by your dentist will depend on a number of factors, including the cause of the gap and the gap's severity. 

In many cases of diastema, braces are a sufficient treatment option. This is a good option for those with dental spacing issues. Other causes of diastema, however, may require different treatment techniques, such as crowns, veneers, or implants. If the reason your front teeth have a gap is due to too small teeth or a missing tooth, a veener can act as a widener while an implant can act as a filler. 

What are the Positives and Negatives of Treatment? 

As with any medical intervention there are bound to be both positives and negatives to different treatment options. 

For many patients, dental gaps don't pose any risk of pain or discomfort and treatment is sought only for cosmetic purposes. While cosmetic reasons is certainly a valid one, it's important to consider whether the risks of the treatment will outweigh the benefits. Most of the treatment options, such as braces and crowns, are minimally invasive and don't pose any risk. These options will bridge the gap between your teeth and give you a smile you love. For more invasive procedures, such as in the case of an implant, infection and other risks must be thoroughly considered. 

When to Consider Treatment 

Treatment for diastema is usually not time-sensitive, unless the condition is caused by tongue thrust or periodontal disease. For many, treatment is sought for cosmetic reasons making the decision to get treatment entirely personal. 

If the gap between your teeth makes you hate your smile and you feel as if it's holding you back in life, it may be time to consider treatment.Considering the options available to you will give you the information you need to make an informed and educated decision. A dentist, like Fuller Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, can offer you the most insight and advice. To learn more about diastema and the treatment options available to you, consult with your dentist.