A missing tooth should never be left alone, even if the gap is not readily visible. Derek M. Busciglio, D.M.D., runs Busciglio Orthodontics, bringing beautiful, confident smiles throughout the Brandon, Florida, and Plant City, Florida areas. Here he talks about why it is so important to close all the gaps.
Correcting spacing problems in teeth is typically one of the easier and more routine things we do in orthodontics. Spacing is better than crowding, let’s put it that way. It is easier to fix.
It all depends upon whether or not the spacing exists because of missing teeth or because of large jawbones. You can have spacing because the jaw is so big and the teeth are normal size and you have excess space.
Another reason is because a tooth or multiple teeth were extracted previously. In that case, you need to decide whether to close the space with teeth that are present, or to restore the spaces with prosthetic teeth. That would depend on which teeth were taken out and how much space exists.
Filling the Gap
If you decide to leave missing teeth alone and not fill the gap, typically other teeth shift into that space and cause gum and bone problems. So you do need to do something about it, not only from an orthodontic standpoint but from a dental standpoint, restoring the space for good dental function. And it goes without saying that the smile will look better from an aesthetic standpoint as well.
The spaces can be easily closed, in most cases, by properly aligning them within the arch of the tooth. Just make sure you visit your orthodontist early to see what needs to be done.
Young children who have lost a tooth, usually a baby tooth, due to injury or decay can make use of a space maintainer, which is a removable or a fixed appliance designed to maintain an existing space so that the other teeth will not move into it.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
