Can Having Gaps Between The Teeth Affect Your Oral Health?
Posted on 2/6/2023 by Dick Hikade, DDS
Teeth gaps can result from various issues. It can occur due to the incorrect size of the jawbone or teeth. When the jaw or the teeth are too small, you will likely notice gaps between all teeth (diastema). Tongue thrusting is another cause of gaps between the teeth. If you push your tongue forward when swallowing, the pressure can move the teeth forward, resulting in gaps. Besides, childhood habits can also contribute to diastema. While some cultures believe that gaps between the teeth are a sign of good luck and beauty, they can affect oral health. Learn the risks of having gaps between the teeth.
Teeth Shifting
Gaps between the teeth (diastema) can also occur due to tooth loss. When you lose one or two teeth, the extra spaces will make the surrounding teeth move toward the gap. Shifting of teeth can cause misalignment and change in bite. Teeth that do not bite correctly are prone to breakage and chipping. Over time, this can result in cavities and decay.
Increased Risk of Oral Issues
Gaps between the teeth can limit the space needed for other teeth to come in properly. This results in crowding, which makes it challenging to clean the teeth. Besides, food particles will likely get trapped between the gapped teeth, making cleaning a challenge. This contributes to plaque buildup, and when left untreated, it then causes gum disease and tooth decay. These dental issues can cause toothache, sensitivity, bad breath, and bone loss.
Problems with Speech
Gaps between the teeth hinder the correct placement of the tongue. This makes it challenging to pronounce certain sounds. Fortunately, you can eliminate gaps between the teeth with orthodontic treatment. This may involve braces, veneers, or dental bonding. Do you want to achieve a beautiful smile and good oral health? Visit our office, and you'll receive the best treatments from our professional dentists.
Dental Blog | Sunnyside Dentistry | Clackamas, OR dentist Dick Hikade, DDS at Sunnyside Dentistry has created this informative blog to help educate the community about dental concerns. Sunnyside Dentistry, 14210 SE Sunnyside Rd, Suite 200, Clackamas, OR 97015 + (503) 451-5104 + sunnysidedentistry.com + 10/11/2024 + Related Phrases: dentist Clackamas OR +
Teeth gaps can result from various issues. It can occur due to the incorrect size of the jawbone or teeth. When the jaw or the teeth are too small, you will likely notice gaps between all teeth (diastema). Tongue thrusting is another cause of gaps between the teeth. If you push your tongue forward when swallowing, the pressure can move the teeth forward, resulting in gaps. Besides, childhood habits can also contribute to diastema. While some cultures believe that gaps between the teeth are a sign of good luck and beauty, they can affect oral health. Learn the risks of having gaps between the teeth.