Do Gaps Between Teeth Require Braces?

kids dentist Royal Oak, MI

If my son or daughter has gaps between their baby teeth, should I be worried?

Young children have gaps temporarily as their baby teeth gradually fall out and permanent teeth gradually come in. Having gaps in baby teeth doesn’t necessarily mean your child will have gaps in their permanent teeth. However, it’s vital to have your child examined by a dentist at least twice yearly throughout childhood.

When should I bring my child in for their first dental exam?

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend a toddler’s first dental visit occur no later than 12 months.

This is from the ADA:

“It is advantageous for the first visit to occur within six months of the eruption of the first tooth and no later than 12 months of age, and receiving oral health education based on the child’s developmental needs.”

If my youngster has a gap between the two front permanent teeth, do they need braces?

A gap between the two front permanent teeth is a very common issue. It can be caused by pacifier use or thumbsucking as an infant. If teeth are unusually small, it may create gaps between them as the jaw develops.

The tissue that is located between the inside of the upper lip and the gum above the upper front teeth is called the labial frenum. If the labial frenum is especially large, it can create a gap between the top middle teeth.

A gap can be closed with braces or cosmetic dentistry. It depends on the cause of the gap, the size of the gap, and whether there are bite issues.

If my youngster has a gap between their two top middle teeth, will it eventually close up?

In a child, the gap between the two top middle teeth may close up. Or it might get larger. Schedule an exam and consultation at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. We look forward to meeting you and your child.

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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