Tooth Gaps and Bruxism: Causes, Effects, and What You Can Do
Have you ever wondered whether the spaces in your teeth are purely cosmetic? Although many tooth gaps don't pose any problems, some may be a result of changes in your bite, gum health, or the functioning of your teeth.
If you have been grinding and clenching your teeth, the extra stress may be causing you yet another problem to deal with.
Here, we will take a closer look at the most common reasons for tooth spaces, their impact on oral health, as well as what should be done about bruxism. We will also see how wearing a custom dental guard can be of great help to you if you grind or clench your teeth.
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What Causes Tooth Gaps?
Tooth gap, which is also referred to as diastema, is simply a gap that exists between two teeth. The most common form of tooth gap includes those that exist between the upper front teeth, which is referred to as midline diastema. There are various reasons why tooth gaps occur, including variations in sizes between teeth and jaws among others.
Diastema is common across all ages, although it is prevalent among children and may go away on its own as the child grows older. In the case of adults, a newly formed or widened gap could be associated with another oral condition in their mouth. Understanding what's causing the gap can help determine whether it needs treatment.
Can Tooth Gaps Affect Your Oral Health?
Although gaps are not necessarily an issue, it could lead to some misalignment of the teeth or even make some areas more difficult to clean. Here's how they may affect your oral health and when they may need a closer look.
Tooth Gaps and Tooth Alignment
Tooth gaps can sometimes be connected to the way your teeth are positioned or how your bite comes together. A recent study on maxillary midline diastema found that factors such as labial frenum size, tooth size, genetics, and bite characteristics may play a role in how these gaps develop.
Another review conducted by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry also identifies the following risk factors as tooth and jaw sizes, missing and rotated teeth, as well as bite types. Should there be a problem with the positioning of the teeth or the bite alignment, there could be issues such as difficulty in chewing, speaking, and even TMJ pain. Untreated malocclusion may also increase the risk of certain oral health problems.
Tooth Gaps and Oral Hygiene
Tooth gaps don't necessarily cause oral health problems. But there may be spots that are more difficult to access and clean where food debris and plaque could accumulate more easily. This formation could eventually affect the well-being of your gums.
Studies also reveal an association between the presence of gaps in teeth and the condition of gums. One research found that gaps being formed or widened were associated with bone loss and gum inflammation, where bone resorption had the greatest association. In another study, researchers found that open black triangles between the teeth were a potential cause of food retention.
Together, these findings show why it's important to keep the areas around tooth gaps clean, especially if a gap is new or seems to be getting wider.
Tooth Gaps and Bruxism: What You Should Know
Having a tooth gap doesn't mean you have bruxism, and bruxism isn't established as a direct cause of tooth gaps. But if both problems exist, grinding and clenching will add more pressure to your teeth and supporting tissues. In an interview with the University of Utah, a periodontist explains that repeated pressure from grinding can transfer force to the bone that supports your teeth and, over time, may contribute to loose teeth.
What Can You Do If You Have Tooth Gaps and Bruxism?
In case you have both tooth gaps as well as bruxism, then the following measures can be helpful:
- Maintain cleanliness of tooth gaps. Brush and floss daily to eliminate any plaque or food particles that may be present in the spaces between your teeth.
- Notice any changes in the gap. In case the space is a new development, gets bigger, or is associated with gum changes, then visit the dentist for an assessment.
- Deal with teeth grinding or clenching. In case you grind and clench your teeth on a regular basis, talk to your dentist about measures to protect your teeth from constant pressure.
- Use a dental guard. A dental guard may help minimize direct contact between your teeth and protect them from the effects of grinding and clenching.
Did you know that keeping your night guard clean can also help support your oral health? Learn more in this article: 6 Bacteria Found on Dirty Night Guards & How to Clean Them
Have Tooth Gaps? Don’t Let Grinding Add More Stress
A dental guard won't fix tooth gaps, but it can be a convenient way to protect your teeth if you grind or clench. Our custom night guards provide a customized fit to help safeguard your teeth against the damage caused by teeth grinding and clenching. With ClearClub's renewal plan, you can also get regular replacements to keep your guard fresh and comfortable over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can tooth gaps cause oral health problems?
Having gaps between your teeth does not always result in oral health complications. However, gaps that are difficult to clean may allow food particles and plaque to accumulate. New or widening gaps may also sometimes be linked to underlying gum problems.
❓ Can bruxism make tooth gaps worse?
There is not enough evidence to prove that bruxism causes gaps between teeth to widen. However, constant grinding and clenching can place continuous pressure on the teeth and their supporting structures, which may contribute to tooth mobility over time.
❓ Can a dental guard fix tooth gaps?
No. A dental guard cannot close or fill gaps between your teeth. However, if you have bruxism, a dental guard can help protect your teeth from the pressure and wear caused by grinding and clenching.
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