Spaces can mean other things

Lance Timmerman, DMD answers: Bonding or Invisalign for small teeth with spaces?

Hi I am 18 and I have smaller teeth than normal and spaces between them. I was wondering what I could do about it?

I have had my two front teeth bonded and I love them except they are covered in the back, uneven and hurts when I drink cold drinks. And when I floss, it catches on the rough spots.

But since my teeth are small, would Invisalign make my teeth look weird when they were straightened? Which is better between Invisalign and bonding for the spaces in my teeth then?


Lance Timmerman, DMD
29 days ago

Often, the spaces can indicate a tongue positioning issue and can be associated with airway problems in later years.  Closing the spaces CAN create a problem.  Similar to a person that drives a Cadillac and has a garage that fits a Pinto.  If your tongue wants space, it needs that space. 

You may want to consider porcelain veneers.  Similar to your bonding, it can close the spaces but still leave room for your "Cadillac".  If done well, they will be smooth and will not catch floss as your current bonding does.  Veneers will allow the teeth to be the right size (you state that they are too small) and can be whatever color you desire.

The answer to your question is yes, Invisalign can work.  Traditional braces should be considered as well, but a comprehensive exam should be done to rule out other issues.

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