Close gaps between teeth and make them tight with resin.

Closing the gap between teeth is the process of closing the gap between teeth using tooth-colored restorative material (composite resin) for aesthetic purposes. It is mostly done on the upper front teeth located in the midline. Causes of gaps between teeth include abnormal tooth alignment, extraction of natural teeth without replacement causing adjacent teeth to move apart, resulting in gaps, gaps remaining after orthodontic treatment, attachment of tissues holding the lips, thumb sucking or other objects, and abnormal swallowing habits.

Steps for filling the gap between teeth

1. Polish the teeth to remove plaque and food debris thoroughly.
2. Select the color of the restorative material to match the natural tooth color and try the material on the patient’s tooth to compare and achieve a realistic color match.
3. Measure the combined width of the two teeth and the size of the gap, then calculate the average size of the two teeth to close the gap. Both teeth should be the same size after restoration.
4. Perform minimal tooth trimming or remove old restorative material if there is deteriorated existing filling.
5. Restore both teeth with composite resin material to close the gap.
6. Polish and shape for aesthetics and to prevent food debris from sticking.

However, if the gap is caused by tongue pressure pushing the teeth outward or if there are multiple gaps between teeth, orthodontic treatment may be required. Patients with gum disease who have significant gum recession or those with very wide gaps may not be able to have the gap fully closed down to the gum line. In cases where there is a need to change the shape/color or structure of teeth with many defects, treatment with veneers is another option.

Care and maintenance

The lifespan depends on care and maintenance. Avoid using restored teeth to bite or tear hard objects. Avoid consuming highly pigmented foods as the restorative material absorbs stains more than natural tooth surfaces. Acidic foods affect the restorative material. Teeth whitening will not change the color of the restorative material.