New gaps developing in your teeth after starting orthodontic treatment with braces can be surprising. This is a common part of the tooth straightening process. While it might seem counterintuitive for braces to create spaces, these temporary gaps are often a normal and expected phase of your journey toward a well-aligned smile.
The Dynamics of Tooth Movement
Orthodontic treatment involves a controlled biological process where teeth are gradually repositioned within the jawbone. Braces apply gentle, continuous pressure to the teeth, influencing the surrounding bone and tissues. This pressure stimulates a process called bone remodeling, where bone tissue is broken down on one side of the tooth and new bone is formed on the other. This allows teeth to move through the bone into their desired locations.
Tooth movement is not always linear; teeth may rotate, tip, or move along the arch in stages. This dynamic repositioning can temporarily create spaces that were not present before, or even make existing gaps appear larger. These temporary spaces indicate that treatment is progressing and teeth are actively responding to orthodontic forces.
Common Reasons for Gaps
New gaps can appear during orthodontic treatment for several reasons, often as part of the planned process. Orthodontists may intentionally create small spaces to facilitate overall alignment, especially when crowding is present. This intentional space creation might involve techniques like interproximal reduction, where small amounts of enamel are removed between teeth, or even tooth extraction in cases of severe crowding.
Another reason for gaps is variations in tooth shape and size. For instance, some individuals have teeth that are smaller or shaped differently, such as “peg laterals,” which can lead to spaces becoming more noticeable as surrounding teeth straighten. These discrepancies become clearer once teeth begin to align.
Temporary gaps frequently form as teeth undergo movements to reach their correct positions. As teeth rotate, tip, or move to relieve crowding, they can create transient spaces that will later be closed as treatment advances. Pre-existing conditions, such as a missing tooth or significant bone loss, can also contribute to gaps that become more evident as surrounding teeth move.
When to Consult Your Orthodontist
While many gaps are a normal part of the orthodontic process, contact your orthodontist in specific instances. Reach out if you experience unusual pain, notice loose or broken wires or brackets, or if a gap seems to be widening rapidly or inconsistently with your treatment plan. These signs could indicate an issue requiring professional assessment and adjustment.
It is beneficial to communicate any concerns with your orthodontist, even if they seem minor. They are qualified to assess your situation and provide guidance regarding your treatment progress. Most temporary gaps are part of the planned tooth movement and will resolve as your orthodontic treatment nears completion.