Some people do not have enough space for their teeth to line up straight. Others have too much space leaving unattractive gaps between teeth. Dental spacial problems can occur between any teeth in the mouth. It is most noticeable with it appears in the upper front teeth, the central incisors.
Methods for treating spacing problems are dependent on several factors, including whether the teeth have a history of being heavily filled due to cavities over the years. The ideal situation for correcting gaps between teeth would be one where the teeth are straight, have a nice bright color, and have no existing restorations. When the space gap is 3mm or less, the situation for correction is ideal. When teeth are too broad in proportion to their height, this creates a cosmetic dilemma.
Once it is determined that the teeth meet the ideal criteria for composite resin bonding, the work can begin. The space between the teeth is noted. Ideally, you would be dividing the area divided between the two teeth so that the two treated teeth would look symmetrical in the end. The dentist’s type of resin material and the color would be determined and approved by the patient. The bonding material must emerge from the tooth below the gum line to obtain a natural-looking result. The patient can only achieve a natural-looking result if the tooth’s side appears to grow out of the gum tissue.
To achieve this natural look, the cosmetic dentist typically places a small string between the surface to be bonded and the gums. This pushes the gum away from the tooth, allowing the bonding material to be shaped not only on the side but also on the front and back of that tooth aspect. Space has closed a tooth at a time. When one tooth side is completed, the cosmetic dentist shapes and polishes the bonding. The bonding is observed from both sides, front and back, and importantly looking down the tooth from its edge. The bonding must appear as an exact extension of the tooth’s side to not appear fake to the observer. Once one tooth’s side has been completed and polished, the process is begun anew for the adjacent tooth’s side, which Doc will treat to close the other ½ of the space.
Achieving a natural, realistic-looking space closure between teeth is one of the most challenging procedures a cosmetic dentist does. When correctly performed by the dentist and properly maintained by the patient, the results can continue to look natural for many years in the future.
Dental cosmetic bonding and veneering can be your most cost-effective solution in creating a beautiful smile.
For more information, please see:
Cosmetic and Restorative Family Dentistry
