Can gaps between teeth be filled?
Oct 15, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, whether a gap between teeth can be filled depends on the specific situation. Small physiological gaps without discomfort usually do not require repair. However, if the gap is too large, caused by tooth decay or gum recession, or affects eating and aesthetics, repair may be necessary. To maintain healthy spaces between teeth, it's important to brush teeth morning and night and use dental floss regularly.
Generally, whether gaps between teeth can be filled depends on the specific situation. Physiological small gaps without discomfort usually do not require repair; however, if the gap is large, caused by tooth decay or gum recession, or affects eating and aesthetics, repair may be necessary. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If the gap is a natural physiological one, with well-aligned teeth and no issues such as food impaction or gum bleeding that affect daily life, special treatment is typically unnecessary. Routine oral hygiene—such as using dental floss to clean between teeth—is sufficient to prevent food debris accumulation.
When gaps result from tooth decay causing damage to the adjacent tooth surfaces, or from gum recession leading to enlarged spaces, and are accompanied by frequent food trapping or gum inflammation, timely intervention is needed. Dentists will determine the appropriate treatment—such as composite resin fillings, orthodontic correction, or periodontal therapy—to reduce the gap, restore normal contact between teeth, and relieve discomfort.
To maintain healthy spaces between teeth, it's important to brush teeth twice daily, use dental floss and interdental brushes regularly, and schedule routine dental check-ups. Avoid chewing hard objects with your teeth to prevent gum injury or tooth damage that could widen gaps. If any abnormal changes in tooth gaps occur, seek appropriate care or treatment promptly.
