While there are many celebrities that have embraced it, a noticeable gap between the two front teeth is a cosmetic concern for most people. It can be the reason someone hides their teeth when they smile or avoids pictures of themselves. It is not uncommon for patients to come to our Rocky Hill office with questions about how they can effectively close their front tooth gap. The truth is that there is more than one way a dentist can correct gapped teeth, even on the front of your smile.

To determine your cosmetic dentistry treatment options for closing your front tooth gap, it is important to answer the following questions:

Is the gap caused by missing teeth?
This is important because if the empty space in your smile is due to tooth loss, you’ll need to consider a restorative dentistry option. A dental implant or dental bridge can effectively replace the missing tooth and fill in the unwanted gap.

Are there other alignment issues?
Orthodontics can certainly move your front teeth together and close the gap. While not all patients are willing to invest the time, money and hassle in wearing braces, if you also suffer from other alignment problems or bite concerns, orthodontics may be your best solution. Fortunately, there are modern options such as Invisalign that are clear, removable and highly conducive to your teen or adult lifestyle.

How large is your tooth gap?
Tooth gaps can be minor or major depending on the width of the open space between the two teeth. This is an important consideration, as minor gaps can be treated quite differently than large gaps.

  • Cosmetic Dental Bonding: For gaps that are small, tooth-colored composite bonding can be performed. This is a simple, cost-effective and brief procedure that uses composite resin to build up surface of the front teeth and close in the unsightly gap.
  • Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are an excellent solution if your tooth gap is more significant and too wide to be corrected with bonding. Veneers are wafer-thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They look remarkably natural and can be customized in size, shape and color to match your surrounding teeth.

When it comes to saying goodbye to your front tooth gap, you do have options. At West Hill Family Dental, we will carefully consider your clinical needs as well as your budget, goals and personal preferences when recommending a treatment method to close your dental gap. Our Rocky Hill office offers complete dental care, including cosmetic and implants dentistry as well as modern orthodontics. Call today and let us create a smile you are proud to show off!

Posted on behalf of West Hill Family Dental