Gaps between front teeth are commonly seen in children and adults. Spacing seen in the milk teeth in children is quite normal and good because space will accommodate the larger permanent teeth. In permanent teeth, however, it is a defect and needs to be corrected.
Why do they occur?
- Teeth are small but the jaw size is large
- A thick band of tissue (frenal attachment) from upper lip may get attached between the upper incisors, thus causing spacing between them.
- Habits like thumb sucking, lip biting
- Hereditary problems
Why do gaps have to be closed?
- Unpleasant smile
- Bad odour
- Tartar formation
- Cavity formation
What can be done?
- Small gaps can be filled up with tooth colored filling material
- Slightly larger gaps can be closed by placing a crown
- Braces (orthodontic treatment)