A gap in your teeth? Here is how we close it.
Spaces between the teeth, whether it is a single gap between the front two or spacing across the whole smile, are one of the most satisfying things to put right. Here is why gaps happen, and how a specialist closes them so they stay closed.
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Reviewed by Dr Shaz MacAvoy, Specialist Orthodontist. Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Orthodontics), registered with the Dental Council of New Zealand.
Gaps and spacing, closed
Real Milk Orthodontics patients, shared with their permission. From a single gap between the front teeth to spacing across the whole smile, here is what closing it looks like.
What causes gaps between teeth
A gap, or several spaces, appears when there is more room in the jaw than the teeth need to fill. That can come down to the size of the teeth, a tooth that is small or missing, a prominent band of tissue between the front teeth, or a tongue habit. Whatever the cause, the spaces can be closed and held closed.
Why it happens
Common reasons are a mismatch between tooth size and jaw size, a tooth that is small or missing, a prominent labial frenum (the band of tissue behind the top lip), or a tongue that pushes against the front teeth.
Why it is worth treating
Beyond the look most people want fixed, spaces can trap food and make cleaning harder, and a large front gap can affect confidence. Closing it protects the gums and evens out the bite.
How we treat it
Braces or clear aligners move the teeth gently together, and a retainer holds the result. Where a small or missing tooth is part of the picture, we plan the spacing so the final smile looks even.
Some gaps are simple and close quickly; others need the whole bite considered so they do not reopen. A free Smile Assessment tells you exactly what is going on. We treat this in children, teens and adults, with braces or clear aligners.
Clear pricing, no surprises
The first step is a free Smile Assessment, in the clinic or over Zoom. A full diagnostic work-up with a written plan and exact quote is $390. Simple cosmetic treatment from $7,900, comprehensive specialist treatment from $9,900 with most cases around $10,400, all-inclusive of records, appliances, appointments, retainers and aftercare. Interest-free in-house plans work out around $60 to $76 a week, and family discounts apply for siblings.
Answered honestly
Why do I have a gap between my teeth?
Gaps appear when there is more room in the jaw than the teeth need to fill. The usual reasons are a mismatch between the size of your teeth and your jaw, a tooth that is small or missing, a prominent band of tissue between the front teeth called the labial frenum, or a tongue habit. A specialist orthodontist can tell you which applies to you.
Can a gap between teeth close on its own?
In young children a small gap between the front teeth can close naturally as the adult canine teeth come through. In teens and adults a gap will not close on its own, but braces or clear aligners close it reliably. An early check tells you whether it is worth waiting or treating.
Will the gap come back after it is closed?
Spaces have a natural tendency to reopen, which is why a retainer is an essential part of closing a gap for good. Retainers and aftercare are included in every Milk treatment fee, and wearing your retainer as directed keeps the gap closed permanently.
Is it better to close a gap with braces or clear aligners?
Both work well. Clear aligners are popular for closing a front gap discreetly, while braces can be the better choice for larger spaces or when the bite needs adjusting at the same time. We recommend the option that suits your smile and your lifestyle after your assessment.
How much does it cost to close a gap in your teeth?
Simple cosmetic treatment starts from $7,900 and comprehensive specialist treatment from $9,900, all-inclusive of records, appliances, appointments, retainers and aftercare, including GST. A single small gap can sit at the simpler end. You get an exact written quote after your free Smile Assessment.
See how easily it closes
A free 20 minute Smile Assessment, in the clinic or over Zoom. No referral needed, no obligation, just honest specialist advice on your gap and the simplest way to close it.
See more before and after results, or explore other conditions we treat.