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Gaps Between Teeth Treatment in Odessa, Florida

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Gaps Between Teeth Treatment in Odessa, Florida

Written by the Smile Isle Orthodontics team. Medically reviewed by Dr. Marina Kosturos, DDS, MSD. Last reviewed: July 2026.

A gap between teeth (also known as a diastema) is extra space caused by a tooth-size mismatch, missing teeth, oral habits, or normal childhood development. We close gaps by moving teeth into their ideal positions, which improves the bite and smile. Beyond appearance, gaps can trap food, irritate gums, and leave your bite unevenly balanced.

At Smile Isle Orthodontics, we use advanced digital scans and 3D CBCT imaging to understand why the spacing is there in the first place, then design gaps between teeth treatment in Odessa around your goals and lifestyle.

Start with a FREE consultation. We proudly serve patients in Odessa, Trinity, Keystone, Land O’ Lakes, Lutz, and New Port Richey.

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Questions? Call: (813) 755-4655

Common causes of gaps between teeth

Tooth and jaw size mismatch: When teeth are small relative to the jaw, extra space spreads out between them.

Missing or undersized teeth: A missing or unusually small tooth leaves room for neighbors to drift apart.

Oral habits: Long-term thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting can push front teeth outward and apart over time.

Normal development in kids: Spacing between baby teeth is often healthy; it leaves room for larger adult teeth. An evaluation tells us whether a gap will close on its own.

Shifting over time: Teeth can drift, and spaces can open years after orthodontic treatment if retainers aren’t worn consistently.

reasons for invisalign orthodontic treatment smile isle orthodontics

Treatment options for gaps between teeth

Metal Braces

Metal braces give us strong, precise control for closing spaces and aligning the bite around them. We offer traditional braces and custom self-ligating braces, which use a built-in clip instead of elastic ties for easier cleaning and often fewer adjustment visits.

Clear Ceramic Braces

Clear ceramic braces close gaps with the same reliability as metal braces but use tooth-colored GC Chic brackets for a more discreet look, a popular option for teens and adults.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually guide teeth together. For many spacing cases, aligners are an excellent fit: smooth, easy to clean, and nearly invisible. Dr. Marina has advanced training in Invisalign and completes ongoing education each year.

Retainers That Protect the Result

Once a gap closes, it wants to reopen, which is why retainers matter so much for spacing cases. We offer Hawley, Vivera, bonded, and Essix options, and a bonded retainer is often recommended to keep closed gaps closed.

Why treating gaps between teeth matters

Healthier Gums, Less Food Trapping

Gaps collect food and plaque against the gumline. Closing them makes brushing and flossing more effective and helps protect gum health over the years.

A More Balanced Bite

When spacing shifts how teeth meet, some teeth absorb more force than they should. Treatment distributes biting pressure evenly across the smile.

An Airway-Conscious Approach

Smile Isle Orthodontics is the only airway-focused practice in the area. When we evaluate spacing, we also look at how tongue posture, habits, and breathing and growth may be contributing, so we treat the cause, not just the space.

Confidence in Your Smile

For many patients, closing a gap changes how they feel about smiling in photos, at work, and everywhere else. Modern options make the process more comfortable and discreet than ever.
adult orthodontic treatment in odessa florida at smile isle orthodontics

Answers to your questions about gaps between teeth treatment in Odessa

Is a gap in my child's smile normal?

Often, yes. Spacing between baby teeth is usually healthy. But some gaps signal habits or development patterns worth watching. A free consultation with our early treatment team is the easiest way to know for sure.

Can Invisalign close my gap?

For many spacing cases, yes. Aligners are especially effective for mild to moderate gaps. For larger spaces or bite corrections, braces may give us more control. We’ll recommend the best fit at your consultation.

How much does it cost to close a gap?

It depends on the treatment and the complexity of your case, not on a flat rate. You’ll get an exact quote at your free consultation, and every option comes with the same flexible financing: monthly plans through Cherry, Delta Dental, and PPO benefits, and HSA/FSA funds.

How long does it take to close a gap?

It varies with the size of the space and the movement involved. Small gaps can close relatively quickly; comprehensive cases take longer. You’ll get a personalized timeline at your free consultation.

Will the gap come back after treatment?

Without a retainer, it can. Closed spaces are prone to reopening. That’s why we build retention into every spacing plan from the start.

Do I need veneers or bonding instead?

As orthodontists, we close gaps by moving teeth into their ideal positions, which improves your bite and appearance. At your consultation, we’ll talk honestly about whether orthodontic treatment fits your goals.

Flexible Payment Options

Investing in your smile shouldn’t feel overwhelming. We offer no-interest financing with low down payments, pay-in-full savings, family discounts, and convenient monthly plans through Cherry.

We’re in-network with Delta Dental and accept all PPO policies with out-of-network benefits. Our team is ready to help you understand and maximize your benefits. HSA and FSA funds can also be used toward treatment.

Learn About Financing
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Ready to close the gap?

Maybe it’s a space you’ve thought about for years, or a new gap in your child’s smile. Either way, the easiest place to start is a free consultation. We’ll explain what’s causing it, what your options are, and what makes sense next.
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INvisalign
Southern Society of Orthodontists
Florida Dental Association
West Coast District Dental Association
Hillborough County Dental Society

Visit us in Odessa

Our practice is conveniently located in a family-focused building, sharing space with a pediatric medical group and a pediatric dental practice. We treat patients from Land O' Lakes, Trinity, Keystone, Lutz, New Port Richey, and the entire greater Tampa community. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans!

Call (813) 755-4655

14735 Sully Run
Odessa, FL 33556
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