You’ve probably heard that a gap between the upper front teeth gives people a special charm and that their smile wouldn’t be the same without it. As we like to say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Whether someone likes a gap between teeth or not is a personal matter. Some people have grown fond of this feature, and even if they ever need to replace their natural teeth with artificial ones, they ask for the gap to remain.
On the other hand, most people strive for perfect tooth alignment and would like to find a way to close the gap between their teeth.
What Causes Gaps Between Teeth?
1. Genetic Predisposition
As with other characteristics of our body, the size and position of teeth are genetically determined. A gap can appear between two teeth or among several. This especially occurs when the teeth are smaller and the jaws are larger, leaving extra space that small teeth can’t fill.
2. Upper Lip Frenulum
The frenulum is a fold of tissue located under the upper lip. In some people, it’s wide and strong, reaching the area between the upper front teeth and separating them.
3. Missing Teeth
During growth and development, some people may have an abnormal number of teeth – a tooth may fail to form or remain trapped inside the jaw without the ability to erupt. As a result, an empty space appears where the tooth should be.
4. Thumb Sucking
This bad habit in children causes the upper front teeth to be pushed forward. When teeth are protruded, gaps tend to form. The same happens with children who unconsciously push their front teeth with the tongue.
5. Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease (gum disease) is one of the most common oral conditions and a major cause of gaps between teeth. Bacteria attack the supporting tissues of the teeth, reducing the level of gums and bone.
As a result, the tooth loses its firm position. Over time, due to chewing forces, teeth start to shift—usually forward—creating spaces between them.
6. Baby Teeth
Baby teeth are smaller and fewer in number than permanent teeth. Therefore, gaps between baby teeth are normal and even desirable.
Children without gaps between their baby teeth may later lack space for permanent ones. So, gaps between baby teeth are the only case on this list where no treatment is needed.
Solutions for Gaps Between Teeth
Orthodontic Treatment
Wearing braces or clear aligners to straighten teeth are our first recommendations. These are the best solutions for people who have gaps between multiple teeth and require complete bite rehabilitation.
In addition to improving aesthetics, braces align the teeth and correct the bite, allowing proper chewing function and extending the lifespan of the teeth.
Frenulum Removal
If the gap appears only between the upper front teeth due to a strong frenulum, it can be surgically removed. This is a simple procedure performed under local anesthesia, without complications.
After the procedure, a single stitch under the lip is removed after seven days. Depending on the patient’s age, the teeth may close naturally after frenulum removal.
However, this treatment is often combined with orthodontic therapy, so the two approaches need to be coordinated.
Composite Fillings
Composite (white) fillings are the simplest and quickest way to close a gap for aesthetic reasons.
No tooth reduction is required – the filling material is applied to mimic natural tooth structure.
Usually, material is added to both teeth surrounding the gap, closing or reducing it completely.
The procedure is painless and completed in one visit.
The only downside is that the material may slightly change color over time, so it needs occasional replacement.
Veneers and Ceramic Crowns
These are great options for patients who, besides closing the gap, wish to improve their overall smile. With these methods, it’s possible to modify the shape, color, and size of teeth.
Ceramic veneers and crowns are long-term solutions because the material retains its properties over time.
However, they require tooth preparation before placement.
Each procedure takes about 7–10 days.
Individual Treatment Approach
Each case is unique, so a dental examination and treatment plan are essential to find the best solution for every patient.
If you’d like to receive a free online consultation, email us at dr.bede@eunet.rs.
Send your name, X-ray, and a photo of your teeth – and we’ll gladly help you find the best way to close the gap between your teeth.
