July 24, 2023

Noticed A Sudden Gap Between Your Teeth?

As we journey through life, it’s not uncommon to notice changes in our oral health. One such change that many individuals experience as they age is the gradual increase in the gap between teeth, a condition known as diastema. While it may cause concern, understanding the reasons behind this widening gap and taking preventive measures can help maintain a healthy and confident smile. Let’s see the reasons for the sudden gap between teeth and how to prevent that.

Reasons for sudden gap in teeth

1. Natural ageing process

As we grow older, our bodies undergo various transformations, and our oral health is no exception. “With age, the elasticity of the gum tissues and ligaments supporting the teeth tends to decrease. This can lead to a shift in the position of teeth, causing gaps to form.

2. Periodontal disease

Gum diseases such as periodontitis can significantly impact oral health, particularly as we age. Dr Dehane explains that these conditions can damage the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and underlying bone, leading to tooth loss. When teeth are lost, the remaining teeth may shift, creating spaces between them. The tendency to develop gum diseases increases with age, making the occurrence of diastema more noticeable as we grow older.

3. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Dr Dehane believes persistent teeth grinding, known as bruxism, can also be a reason for sudden gaps between teeth. As it can exert excessive pressure on the teeth. Over time, this can cause enamel erosion and compromise the stability of teeth. As a result, the teeth may gradually shift, creating gaps between them. The changes caused by bruxism happen gradually over a long period, often becoming more pronounced with age.

How to prevent the increase of gap between teeth?

1. Good oral hygiene

Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices is crucial for overall oral health.

Dr. Lakshmi Ramgopal