Inexpensive treatments for gapped teeth

What is diastema (Gapped teeth)?

Diastema refers to the space or gap between two or more teeth. It can occur anywhere in your mouth, but it's most commonly seen between the two upper front teeth. Gaps can be small or wide, depending on the cause and alignment of your teeth. While diastema is not necessarily harmful, it can sometimes cause functional and aesthetic issues. For example, food can easily get stuck in wide gaps, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, gum irritation, and cavities. Many people also seek treatment for cosmetic reasons to achieve a more uniform, confident smile.

Common reasons why gaps form between teeth

Before diving into treatments, it's important to understand why these gaps develop. Knowing the cause helps your dentist choose the most effective and lasting fix.

Genetics

Sometimes, it's simply in your DNA. If your parents have gapped teeth, you might inherit the same dental spacing pattern.

Disproportionate tooth size

When your teeth are smaller than your jaw, spaces naturally appear between them. This is common in people with narrow or undersized teeth.

Missing teeth

When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth shift to fill the space, leading to uneven gaps elsewhere.

Tongue thrusting

Some people push their tongue against their front teeth when swallowing or speaking, which, over time, can cause teeth to separate.

Habits in childhood

Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use can cause front teeth to move outward, creating a noticeable gap.

Gum disease

Severe gum issues can lead to bone loss, which may cause teeth to move and create spacing.

Orthodontic solutions for gapped teeth

Orthodontic treatments don't just improve how your teeth look; they also correct bite issues, alignment, and long-term oral health. If your gaps are moderate to large, orthodontics may be your best bet, like braces and clear aligners.

Braces

Gap in front teeth, fix them with braces. They apply steady, controlled pressure on your teeth to move them into proper alignment over time. Brackets are attached to each tooth, and wires help guide the teeth into place.

Why choose braces

Cost considerations

Traditional metal braces are often more affordable than clear or ceramic braces, but both can vary in cost depending on treatment duration and complexity. In the UK, you can expect to pay between £1,600 and £4,000 , depending on the provider.

If your gap is large or combined with other misalignments, braces might be the most reliable choice. However, for mild to moderate spacing, a more modern and discreet alternative exists in clear aligners.

Clear aligners

Get your teeth gaps fixed with aligners, a perfect alternative to traditional braces. Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays that fit snugly over your teeth. They gradually shift your teeth into place without the need for metal wires or brackets. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before switching to the next.

Why they're ideal

Affordability advantage

Different providers offer clear aligners for teeth straightening, which means you can straighten your smile without breaking the bank. For instance, Caspersmile offers at-home teeth straightening starting from just £599.

Want to get rid of those tooth gaps without breaking the bank?

With Caspersmile Clear Aligners, straighten without any stress.

Shop now

Cosmetic solutions for small gaps

Not all gaps need orthodontic intervention. If your teeth are otherwise well-aligned but have small spaces, cosmetic dentistry can quickly and affordably improve your smile.

Dental bonding

Bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured resin material to your teeth. The dentist shapes and polishes the resin to blend seamlessly with your natural enamel, effectively “filling in” small gaps.

Benefits:

Ideal for:

Small front teeth gaps or cosmetic improvements before special occasions like weddings or photoshoots.

Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells (usually porcelain) that cover the front surface of teeth. They can mask gaps, chips, and discolouration while giving your teeth a flawless look.

Why consider veneers:

Cost

Porcelain veneers typically cost between £800 and £950 per tooth, depending on your dentist. Though pricier than bonding, they're a long-term cosmetic investment.

Dental crowns

Dental crowns cover the entire tooth and are used when the tooth is damaged, weakened, or severely misshapen. While not the first choice for small gaps, crowns can help when function and aesthetics both need correction.

Cost:

Expect to pay between £400 to £1,500 per tooth in the UK, depending on the material. If you're unsure which cosmetic solution fits your needs and budget, Caspersmile's dental experts can guide you with a no-obligation consultation tailored to your smile goals.

Restorative solutions for missing teeth

Sometimes, a gap exists because a tooth is missing altogether. In that case, cosmetic fixes won't work; you'll need a restorative treatment to replace the tooth and prevent further shifting.

Dental implants

A dental implant is a titanium screw placed into the jawbone to act as a root for a replacement tooth (a crown). It looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

Benefits

Cost

Though implants are an upfront investment (£1,500-£2,500 per tooth), they offer the best long-term value by avoiding future dental complications.

Dental bridges

A bridge literally “bridges the gap” created by one or more missing teeth. It uses neighbouring teeth for support, anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) in between.

Advantages:

Cost:

Dental bridges typically range from £695, depending on the number of teeth involved.

When to choose which treatment

With so many choices, how do you know which treatment is right for you? Here's a simple guide:

Additional cost-saving considerations

If you want budget-friendly options, don't worry, there are several ways to make treatment more affordable:

Free consultations

Many clinics and online providers, including Caspersmile, offer free online or in-person consultations to help you understand your options without financial pressure.

Payment plans & financing

Look for clinics that provide monthly instalments or financing options. Caspersmile offers flexible payment plans, so you can start your treatment now and pay over time.

Choose long-term value over short-term fixes

While quick fixes like bonding are inexpensive, they may need touch-ups in a few years. Aligners or braces, though slightly pricier upfront, often prevent relapse and deliver permanent results.

At-home aligners

Caspersmile offers at-home impression kits, allowing you to start your smile journey without multiple dental visits, saving both time and money.

Diastema teeth

You don't need to live with gaps between your teeth or spend a fortune to fix them. Whether your gap is small, moderate, or large, there's an affordable and effective solution waiting for you. From simple bonding to custom aligners , the right treatment can restore your confidence and your smile's natural beauty. If you're looking for a trusted, budget-friendly aligner solution in the UK, Caspersmile offers safe, dentist-supervised treatments designed to fit your lifestyle and your budget.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest way to fix a tooth gap? +

The most affordable way to close small gaps is dental bonding. For moderate spacing, Caspersmile clear aligners offer a low-cost, long-term alternative to expensive orthodontic brands.

How can I reduce the cost of closing teeth gaps? +

Compare quotes, look for clinics offering free consultations, and choose payment plans or at-home aligner kits to save on appointments and travel.

How much does it cost to fix gapped teeth in the UK? +

Depending on the method, prices range from £100 (bonding) to £3,000 (orthodontic aligners or braces). Caspersmile offers affordable aligner plans starting much lower than traditional orthodontics.

What is the best treatment for a gap between teeth? +

It depends on the size and cause. Small cosmetic gaps can be fixed with bonding or veneers, while moderate ones respond best to clear aligners. Missing teeth require implants or bridges.

Does insurance cover teeth gap filling? +

In the UK, most cosmetic treatments like bonding or veneers aren't covered, but orthodontic aligners might be partially covered if there's a medical or functional need.

At what age do teeth gaps form? +

Gaps can form at any age. In children, they often appear as baby teeth fall out. In adults, they may develop due to shifting teeth, missing teeth, or gum issues.