Is Excessive Spacing in My Toddler’s Teeth Bad?
Your beautiful smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it’s no wonder having healthy teeth and gums can help improve your self-esteem. However, if you’re unhappy with your smile, it can have the opposite effect and make you feel less confident in yourself.
Moreover, the development of a child’s primary teeth, or baby teeth, is crucial. Though they eventually fall out, baby teeth are important for a few reasons. They help children chew food properly and speak clearly. They also act as placeholders for the permanent teeth that will come in later. If a baby tooth is lost too early, the adult tooth may become crooked or impacted.
So, if you want to learn more about gapped teeth, you might want to continue reading this article.
Why Are There Gaps Between Baby Teeth
Diastema, commonly referred to as tooth gap, occurs between the two uppermost front teeth. The most common cause of the tooth gap in front is a fraenum that sits lower than usual and keeps the two front teeth apart. A fold of skin called the fraenum connects the upper lip and gums. Raise your upper lip, and you should be able to sense it.
Nearly all children under the age of six will have a gap between their front teeth. This tooth gap should close on its own by the time your child is eight or nine years old, but if it hasn’t closed on its own after the incisor and canine teeth have erupted, your child may require assistance in closing it.
Natural Development
Gaps between baby teeth are expected in order to make room for more prominent permanent teeth to emerge. When adult teeth first appear, they often leave gaps between them, but the arrival of more adult teeth, particularly the canine teeth, often aids in the closure of any such gaps.
Missing Teeth
One or two teeth (baby or adult) are missing in the jaws of some children at birth, leaving a gap. Many of these molars don’t erupt because they get stuck in the bone.
Extra Teeth
Extra teeth in the bone can sometimes prevent the coming through of other teeth, leaving a tooth gap.
Frenum Issues
The maxillary labial frenum is the most likely to cause gaps between teeth. The upper lip is attached to the gum tissue between the two upper front teeth by a small piece of tissue. Having a large frenulum can lead to a gap between the teeth.
Bad Habits Before Adult Teeth
Bad habits like thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting can cause a gap between the teeth.
Jaw Issues
Some teeth are smaller than the jaws that hold them.
Potential Issues That May Arise
Gaps in the front teeth can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Crooked or crowded teeth: There may not be enough room for other teeth to emerge through a large space between the upper and lower front teeth. A person’s bite may be affected as a result of this.
- Self-consciousness: you may feel embarrassed and not want to smile because you think you have a less-than-ideal smile.
Read Next: Can A Child Get Braces With Baby Teeth?
Treatment Options For Tooth Gap
Preventing any further dental issue or raising one’s self-esteem are the two primary reasons to seek a treatment plan for a gap in one’s teeth.
If the gaps aren’t a problem, they can often be left as they are. Talk to your dentist about any concerns you may have about your oral health. In some cases, a dentist may refer you to an orthodontist who has completed additional training to focus on issues related to the alignment of teeth and jaws.
Treatments may include:
- dental veneers
- composite fillings
- crowns
- bridges
- dental implants
- removable appliance
- fixed appliance
- oral surgery
- clear aligners
- frenectomy
Read more: Is Fluoride Toothpaste Safe for Kids?
Contact Junior Smiles of Stafford to learn more about gapped teeth
Although spacing between teeth is often a cosmetic issue, it’s important to remember that it can also be an indicator of overall oral health. If you’re concerned about the spacing in your toddler’s teeth, or if you notice any other signs of potential dental problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable pediatric dentist. Our dentists at Junior Smiles of Stafford are experts in pediatric dental care and would be happy to answer any questions you may have about this condition.
Why Choose Junior Smiles of Stafford?
Our Stafford, VA team is well-versed in working with clients of various ages and backgrounds. They’ll take the time to get to know you and your family’s requirements, and they’ll work with you to design a treatment plan that suits your schedule. Sealants and fluoride treatments are just two of the many preventative care options we provide to keep your mouth healthy.
About Us
Visiting Junior Smiles of Stafford means you’re in good hands when it comes to receiving high-quality care. Your child’s dental health improves with each visit, ensuring a brighter smile for years to come. We adhere to the ADA and AAPD’s guidelines for best practices.
Where Are We Located?
Phone: (540) 699-2441
Fax: (540) 699-2464
Email: info@juniorsmilesofstafford.com
Monday and Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesdays and Thursdays: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fridays and Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (By appointment only)
How to Book Your Kids First Appointment at Junior Smiles of Stafford
Fill out the form on our website. Within 24 hours, a member of our team will get back to you.