How is the teeth gap formed?
Dr. B. Kanagasabapathy
[M.D.S. (Ortho), Fellow ICOI]
A gap in teeth is commonly found in many peoples. Some people don’t bother about it, and some people look to find a solution to fix it. Here are some reasons for how the teeth gap is formed.
Genetics
Space or gap between the teeth is referred to as Diastema. The Gaps develops according to the teeth size and jaw size. Accordingly, these two size variations are due to genetic factors. In some of the families, it will be a common factor.
Thumb sucking
Most children and babies suck their thumb when they are sleepy, and it is a natural habit. Thumb sucking habits feel them secure. Some children will leave this habit before starting their schooling. If the habit continues, the upper teeth will be pushed and a gap in teeth will be created. Visit a pediatric dentist to make your child start following good oral habits early.
Tongue Thrusting
Some children push their tongue between the lower and upper teeth while swallowing. This habit is not good; because the upper teeth will be pushed forward, and open bite occurs. This is similar to thumb sucking. Due to open bite, the gap may develop easily in teeth.
The unstoppable growth of lower jaw
Do you know your growth of the lower jaw is unstoppable for lifelong? Yes, your lower jaw will grow continuously at a slow rate. As the lower jaw grows, the lower front teeth will touch the upper front teeth and push it forward and develop buck teeth or your teeth get crowded.
Shrinking of the lower jaw
After some years, the lower jaw width will become smaller. Due to this shrinkage in width, the teeth get crowded easily.
Teeth Grinding or Bruxism
Teeth Grinding or Bruxism is commonly found in children because of their change in the growth of teeth and jaw. It is usual and does not require treatment mostly. But in adults, this case must be noticed. Some peoples have this habit naturally due to genetics.
The external factors causing this are drinking alcohol, drugs, caffeine, and smoking cigarettes. Stress is a major factor for teeth grinding. Due to this an additional tooth wear is required to protect your teeth.
They damage your tissues present around your teeth resulting in a change in bite, shorter teeth, and facial changes too. This is also a reason for the development of the teeth gap.
If a tooth is removed
Like your lower jaw, the teeth also grow till the lifetime. If a tooth is removed, the neighboring teeth will move to the empty area. Thus the shifting of teeth creates a larger gap. Orthodontic treatments will help you to close those larger gaps.
Aging
The outer layer of the teeth is protected by cheeks and lips, where the tongue protects the inner layer. Your lips get tighter when your age increases.
Due to this pressure will be increased in your teeth results in crowding. This is the reason where the lower front teeth are more visible than upper front teeth when you are aged.
Periodontal issue
It is the infection in tissues such as bone and gum surrounding the teeth. Due to this, bone loss will occur, and the teeth support is lost, leading to teeth shifting. Hence gap will be created easily. You can also read these 5 ways to prevent gum diseases for better care.
Orthodontic treatment is the best solution to fix the teeth gap, and parents should advise their children to follow good oral habits from their early stages of life to protect such problems.
