There are many people with a beautiful smile that could be enhanced by having the gap between their two front teeth closed. The gap is usually in the upper row and can vary in size. Some front teeth gaps are barely noticeable and get wider over time, while others start out large. If you’ve been thinking about getting something done about a gap that you have between your front teeth, it’s worth further consideration because it has boosted the confidence of many people.
Sometimes the reason why there is a gap between a person’s teeth is because of what’s called a frenum. The frenum is muscle tissue that’s located between the upper lip and the gums. It’s part of the muscular system and can sometimes become overly developed. When this happens, the frenum grows between two of the front teeth, which is what causes the teeth to be pushed apart. However, it’s always best to visit an orthodontist for a consultation. This will enable an expert to conduct an examination to determine the root of the problem.
It’s possible that the gap in your teeth was caused or exacerbated by other issues, such a sucking your thumb as a child. As an Orthodontic specialist in Cypress, TX, Dr. Creed specializes in tooth alignment and can properly assess the issue to develop a proper plan of care. By visiting Creed Orthodontics, you can ask any questions that you might have, which can help you make a decision about how to move forward. In the event that the space is the result of a large frenum, it’s something that can be resolved in two phases.
When the problem is the frenum, the first phase of the process involves using a procedure to close the gap, such as aligners or braces. There are different types of braces that can be used, especially given the many new technologies that have hit the market over the past couple of decades. After the gap has been closed and the braces removed, there is a surgical procedure for the second phase that will eliminate the extra frenum. This procedure is called a frenectomy.
The reason why the gap is closed first before the excess frenum is removed is because removing the frenum first can result in scar tissue. When this happens, there’s a good chance the gap won’t fully close. There’s also a chance that a surgical procedure can cause the loss of papillae, which is the gum tissue that’s located between the teeth. This can create an unfortunate aesthetic that looks like a small hole in between two teeth.
A frenectomy is a procedure that can be performed by different medical professionals, such as an oral surgeon, a general practice dentist or a periodontist. A periodontist specializes in issues surrounding the gums. Any dental professional that performs the procedure must have the appropriate knowledge and training, which will include prior experience performing surgical procedures.
It can sometimes be daunting to have surgery. However, a frenectomy is a relatively simple procedure that involves the use of a scalpel to make a small incision and the area is later stitched back together. The patient is placed under a local anesthetic. It generally takes approximately a week to heal from the procedure. There isn’t a lot of discomfort involved. It’s worth noting that another option is to have a surgical procedure done that uses laser technology.
Since the first phase involves closing the gap, the entire process can be somewhat lengthy, but it’s worth the time and effort if you want to transform your smile.