Gaps and Widely Spaced Teeth | HOW TO FIX (2021)
It is common for gaps between the teeth to develop at every stage in life. For young children, this could mean that a child’s jaw has outgrown their baby teeth. Older teens and adults with gaps and widely spaced teeth will need to be more concerned. In this post, we’ll talk about gaps and widely spaced teeth. Let’s get going.
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People Also Ask
- Can braces fix gaps in teeth?
In short YES. One of the orthodontic correction abilities, among many, that braces can achieve is the closing of gaps. Teeth will be pulled together with wires or pushed together with aligners.
- How fast do braces close gaps?
If it is just gaps that need closing then you may be able to complete the treatment in 6 or 8 months with Invisalign. You may even see faster results with traditional braces.
- Which braces are best for gaps?
Invisalign uses aligners. This is considered the most appropriate treatment method for minor orthodontic issues.
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Widely Spaced Teeth and Health Issues
Teeth with gaps or widely spaced teeth do not represent a potential issue with your facial features. Yet, they could be signs of developing health problems. Or represent an actual threat to your health. Thus, it is always best to talk to an orthodontist about the underlying causes. Along with how having gaps in your smile could contribute to these health issues.
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Reasons For Widely Spaced Teeth
While gaps may have a genetic cause, it is also common for some people to discover gaps due to medical causes. Noticing new spaces between your teeth warrants a trip to your orthodontist. Then you can rule out underlying issues with your jaw bone or gums.
Some children also have gaps caused by a congenital condition. This may need extra treatment. Either way, it is vital to get to the bottom of why your teeth have gaps or are so wide apart. This way, you can rule out more serious problems. Then focus on correcting any misalignments with the help of your orthodontist.
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Increased Risk of Tooth Decay
At first glance, it is easy to think that having gaps between your teeth is a good way to keep your pearly whites clean. Unfortunately, those gaps serve as traps that can cause food to get stuck. While brushing and flossing may help to remove some of the food, it is common to miss the larger gaps in the back.
Over time, having food stay stuck between your teeth sets you up for cavities and gum disease. Getting braces is an easy fix. And your orthodontic team can make sure that your gaps are small. You won’t have to worry about getting food stuck. Thus, you can avoid disease and medical issues moving forward.
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Difficulty With Digestion
Your body’s digestive system begins at the mouth. Being able to chew well is essential. This is for helping your stomach begin the process of breaking down food. Misaligned teeth or those too far apart make it impossible to completely break down food.
This may also mean that you may find yourself swallowing larger chunks of food. This may overwork your digestive system. Post-treatment, many people experience fewer incidences of indigestion.
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Complications From Gum Disease
Neglecting your oral health can lead to problems with your entire body. Not only your facial features. For instance, gum disease does not only cause you to lose your teeth. But it also means that there are bacteria in your mouth that can spread to your whole body. Periodontitis has pneumonia links. Not to mention heart disease and respiratory ailments. All these affect your long-term health.
Periodontitis has pneumonia links
When concerned your gaps are causing gum disease, you can have Invisalign. This is because clear braces help to move your teeth together. While also making sure that you can maintain your oral health with a normal hygiene routine. During your treatment, you can learn how to remove the aligners and brush and floss. Thus, your gums remain healthy.
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Options For Treating Widely Spaced Teeth
The great news is that there are many ways to protect your health by getting your teeth straighter. Your orthodontic office will give you an initial consultation. Here you’ll see how your teeth can improve with straightening. The orthodontist will assess your teeth, gums, jaw, and bite. This assessment will determine the best treatment to fit your needs and lifestyle. Among your options, you may be able to choose from.
Traditional Metal Braces
This is the type of treatment that most people think of for straightening teeth. And you may be a candidate for this type of treatment if you have very large gaps between each one.
Invisalign
Many adults ask for this type of treatment. It is fast, effective, and you will be able to fit this type into your lifestyle. It comes with minimal changes to your diet and oral health care routine.
Lingual Appliances
This type of treatment fits on the back of your teeth where they are less visible. This is a nice option for anyone who wants a discreet treatment method. It works like a more traditional style of treatment.
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Conclusion
Having straight teeth goes far beyond improving your surface appearance. Give Dr. McDermott a call to begin improving your health and attitude. Do this with a personalized treatment plan today.
- Which tip will you try first???
- Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below right now and continue the conversation. Also, link in Twitter over @mcdermottortho1
MCDERMOTT ORTHODONTICS
13046 Falcon Drive
Baxter, MN 56425
Phone: 218-829-1630

Dr. Michael McDermott earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in both Chemistry and Biology from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He followed his undergraduate degrees with a doctorate in dental surgery at the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with highest distinction.
Dr. Mike then furthered his dental education by earning a masters and certificate in Orthodontics at the University of St. Louis in Missouri.