A recent poll conducted by Snow Teeth Whitening and published in a  New York Post article found that while the average American laughs 8 times a day, about 57% of people cover their mouths when they laugh. When questioned as to why, 7 out of 10 people attributed this behavior to being self conscious about their teeth and 61% of people said they would like to change something about their smiles. 

The poll found that people were insecure about crooked teeth, receding gums, a lack of white teeth, and spaces between the teeth. In fact, gaps between the teeth are a common complaint that cosmetic dentists hear from their patients. Since gaps between the teeth are such a common concern, there are a variety of ways your cosmetic dentist can manage this problem. Let’s look at a few ways to eliminate gaps between the teeth: 

Veneers

Dental veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments, especially when it comes to eliminating gaps between the teeth. They are thin, porcelain shells that are cemented over the front side of one or more existing teeth after a small amount of enamel has been removed. Veneers are customized for the individual and can address a variety of cosmetic concerns such as damaged, crooked, stained, and oddly shaped teeth. They can also, of course, eliminate gaps between the teeth. This is usually accomplished by placing one or more veneers that are slightly larger than the natural tooth in order to fill the gap. Once applied, veneers can last around 10-15 years. 

Crowns

Dental crowns are another option that can be used to eliminate gaps between the teeth, however they cover the entire tooth structure rather than just the front. Also sometimes known as dental caps, crowns can change the shape, size, and color of the tooth. Like veneers, when it comes to filling gaps, crowns are usually fabricated to be slightly larger than the natural tooth. However, unlike veneers, crowns require significant alteration of the natural tooth structure in order to fit comfortably. Once applied, crowns will also last around 10-15 years. 

Orthodontic Treatment

If you are looking for a permanent solution to eliminating gaps between the teeth, then orthodontic treatment may be the best choice. Unlike the other treatments, orthodontic treatment will completely change the position and alignment of your teeth so that the gaps disappear. Not only that, but the results from orthodontic treatment often last a lifetime. Depending on your preferences, orthodontic treatment can be completed with Invisalign clear aligners or metal braces. In addition to eliminating gaps between the teeth, orthodontic treatment can also eliminate crooked teeth and malocclusion. 

Cosmetic Bonding

If you are looking for an affordable, quick, and minimally-invasive option for eliminating gaps between your teeth, then cosmetic bonding may be the best choice. Cosmetic bonding uses a dental material called composite resin. Composite resin can be customized in terms of color and it is applied in layers. Each layer is hardened one at a time and the final layer is shaped and polished to blend in with your tooth. Not only can composite resin easily fill in gaps between the teeth, but it doesn’t require alterations to your natural tooth. However, this option only lasts about 5-7 years since composite resin wears down faster compared to other dental materials.