Best Dentist Near Me Treating Diastema | Fairhope, AL
Expert Care for Gaps Between Teeth – Sweet Water Dentistry
Understanding Diastema
Diastema refers to the space or gap between two teeth, most commonly seen between the two upper front teeth. While some people view it as a unique feature, for others, it can affect their confidence or indicate underlying dental issues. At Sweet Water Dentistry in Fairhope, AL, Dr. Phillip Greer and his team provide expert care for diastema, offering both cosmetic and preventative solutions tailored to your needs.
What Causes Diastema?
There are several reasons why a gap might form between your teeth. A common cause is a mismatch between the size of the teeth and the jawbone. When your teeth are too small for your jaw, spaces can develop between them. This type of diastema doesn’t always come with symptoms and may be purely cosmetic.
However, other causes such as tongue thrusting habits, thumb sucking, or periodontal (gum) disease can also lead to gaps. These causes are more concerning because they can result in more serious oral health problems over time. Gum disease, in particular, can lead to bone loss, which compromises the support structure of your teeth. When bone is lost, teeth can shift, become loose, and create or worsen gaps.
Symptoms of Diastema Related to Gum Disease
If your diastema is caused by periodontal disease, you may experience the following symptoms:
Loose or shifting teeth
Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing
Bleeding or swollen gums
Gum recession or visible pockets between the teeth and gums
Diagnosis and Dental Evaluation
Diastema can be easily diagnosed during a routine dental examination. Dentists may also identify gaps when you report food getting stuck, difficulty flossing, or changes in your bite. A full oral exam and possibly dental X-rays will help determine the cause and the appropriate treatment.
How Long Will the Gap Last?
The duration of a diastema depends on the cause. If the space is due to natural anatomy (like a jaw-tooth size mismatch), the gap may remain unchanged unless treated with orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry. If the cause is behavioral or health-related—such as tongue thrusting or gum disease—the gap may continue to widen without intervention.
Prevention Tips and Oral Care
While not all types of diastema are preventable, maintaining excellent oral hygiene can greatly reduce your risk of gaps caused by gum disease. Here are some tips:
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss at least once a day to clean between your teeth
Use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended
Schedule regular cleanings and exams with your dentist
If your diastema is the result of a tongue thrust habit, early intervention is key. You can work with a dental professional or speech therapist to retrain your swallowing technique. By learning to press the tongue against the roof of the mouth rather than the teeth, you can prevent further spacing.
Cosmetic Treatment Options for Diastema in Fairhope, AL
If you’re seeking a cosmetic solution, Sweet Water Dentistry offers several treatment options, including:
Dental bonding to fill small gaps quickly and affordably
Porcelain veneers for a natural, long-lasting aesthetic result
Orthodontics or clear aligners to shift teeth and close gaps gradually
Frenectomy (if a large labial frenum is causing the spacing)
Whether your diastema is cosmetic or caused by underlying dental issues, we’re here to help. Dr. Greer is one of the best cosmetic dentists near Fairhope, AL, and offers personalized treatment plans to help restore your smile and your confidence.
Call Sweet Water Dentistry today at 251-210-2773 to schedule your consultation and learn more about your options for treating diastema. We’re proud to serve Fairhope and the Eastern Shore area with compassionate, expert dental care.
Visit us for expert care:
Sweet Water Dentistry
📍 5915 Sweetwater Cir, Fairhope, AL 36532
🌐 sweetwatersmile.com
📞 Call or Text: (251) 210-2773
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