A diastema, or gap between teeth, is usually a natural part of a child’s development. For many children, the gap between their two front teeth closes with the eruption of their canine teeth. But, other kids might need a little orthodontic help to close the gap once and for all.

Today, we’re diving into how we treat children with a gap between their teeth and discuss if treatment can be done without braces. (Spoiler Alert: It can!) Read on to find out how we can transform your child’s gaps into a healthy, beautiful smile.

Diastema Causes

Remember your child’s toothy grin as a toddler? Those gaps between baby teeth are completely normal as the jaw continues to develop. Issues arise, though, when the gaps persist despite adult teeth erupting.

Anatomy is to blame for many gaps. For instance, some children naturally have small teeth or a thick frenum (fancy for a lip or tongue tie) that may create gaps between the teeth.

Behaviors can also cause gaps between the teeth. If your child is prone to thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or poor dental hygiene, they’re more likely to need treatment for the gaps between their teeth down the road.

How We Treat Diastema

Timing is everything when it comes to determining the best type of treatment for your child, so the sooner your child can see an orthodontist at Gorman & Bunch Orthodontics the better. If you’re not sure when your child should see an orthodontist, find out the best age to start orthodontic treatment.

Fortunately, there are a few options when it comes to treating the gaps between your child’s teeth. Braces are the most common tool to correct large gaps between the teeth and can simultaneously correct other issues, like straightening teeth and correcting bites. Metal braces close the gaps in the mouth by adjusting the position of diastema teeth once the adult teeth have erupted.

How Long Does it Take to Get Braces?

Find Out How

Invisalign can be another option to consider for mild or moderate gaps. The clear, removable, custom-made aligners shift teeth in incremental steps to the final desired position for a healthier smile.

As mentioned previously, it is possible to correct a gap between teeth without using any form of braces. Depending on the size of the gap, removable appliances like retainers can slowly close gaps between your child’s teeth in mild cases. The downside of retainers, though, is that they only work if worn per the recommendations of your orthodontist. With regular use and cleaning, retainers are an excellent option to correct a gap between the teeth without braces.

. . .

If your child still has gaps between his or her teeth after adult teeth have come in, it’s time to consult our team of orthodontists at Gorman & Bunch Orthodontics. We help families find the right treatment plan for their lifestyles and budgets to help create a healthy, beautiful smile for life. Let us help you determine the best course of treatment for your child by scheduling a complimentary consultation at one of our seven Central Indiana offices today!

Ready to schedule a free consultation?

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.