What is the Best Way to Get the Gaps in my Mouth Closed? (photo)

Question

hello out there Iv'e Had gaps in my teeth since I was maybe 12 or 13yrs old When I was younger around 8 or 9 and below I had beatiful smile and now when I need it the most I lack it. I also have a overbite. what do you think is the best procedure for me? I want to get rid of all the gaps and just have the confidence and have that pretty smile again,I have not had that in over 10 years im 22 now just plz give your honest opinion.thanks in advance guys

Pamela Marzban, DDS · Answer

Will you consider doing braces? dentistry has come a long way and know you can do clear braces like Invisalign and creat and maintain a beautiful smile for the rest of your life. Many patients have asked about the benefits of veneers when compared to Invisalign. While veneers are certainly an option for improving your smile, they only cover up certain dental imperfections. Do not get wrong, veneers will look amazing , but if you are looking for a more conservative approach , please consider Invisalign and whitening. You can visit our website to check out cases like yours. Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created for you and only you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you simply wear over your teeth. The best part about the whole process is that most people won't even know you're straightening your teeth.

Tracy Shaw, DMD · Answer

The first "red flag" in your question is the point that you mentioned that the spacing between your teeth is getting worse.  You also mentioned an overbite.  With those two clues, I would explore the possibility of your occlusion (the way your teeth come together when biting, chewing etc) being one of, if not the main insulting factor. 

	Sometimes, if a patient has a heavy bite, the bottom teeth can put too much force on the back of the upper teeth, causing them to flare out.  If this is the cause of your spacing, simply putting veneers on your teeth may  work temporarily, but then your teeth will probably flare out once again if the underlying cause hasn't been addressed.  

	Since you are so young and these teeth are "virgin teeth" as we call them (they don't appear to have any fillings or crowns on them etc) I would recommend that you go with the most conservative treatment plan.  Consider seeing an orthodontist or a general dentist licensed in Invisalign (clear braces).  By realigning the teeth, you will remove excess force on them, stop the pattern in it's tracks and perhaps even close all of the gaps between the teeth.  After ortho is complete, if there are still some minor areas of excess space that bother you, you can repair this conservatively with bonding or veneers.

	Hope this helps!

Jay Neuhaus, DDS · Answer

If the gaps are continuing to increase, the first thing you should do is have your periodontal (gum) situation evaluated, as well as your occlusion (the way your top and bottom teeth meet each other). Once those situations are taken care of, you can close the gaps either with Invisalign (braces) &/or Porcelain Veneers.

What is the Best Way to Get the Gaps in my Mouth Closed? (photo)

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What is the Best Way to Get the Gaps in my Mouth Closed? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Smile Makeover

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.