The fraenum or fraenulum that joins the upper lip to the upper portion of the gum is called the maxillary labial fraenum. An abnormally low maxillary labial fraenum is the most common cause of front teeth with gaps in the upper jaw. This gap is called the maxillary diastema. The abnormal fraenum is attached so low on the gum line that it separates the two front teeth.

It is important to close your gap because a gap between teeth can cause misalignment of the teeth. A large tooth gap between the front teeth could leave insufficient space for those next to the front teeth. This can lead to displacement of the teeth and problems with the bite. Another reason is shyness. Some people may feel embarrassed and reluctant to smile with parted lips.

Front teeth with gaps in the upper jaw close on their own in many cases. Generally, a baby’s teeth begin to erupt between six and nine months. At this early age, the front teeth may be open and the maxillary labial fraenum attached below the gum. By the time the child reaches his first birthday, the fraenum has probably shortened and the eruption of more teeth has closed any gaps. If the adult’s front teeth have gaps, the eruption of the molars helps bring the front teeth together. About one in 10 children has adult front teeth with gaps that do not close on their own.

Fortunately, there is a simple solution to bridge your gap. Teeth Gap offers a product called Dental Effects. The effects of the teeth are like little rubber bands that wrap around the teeth that have a gap. Since the band is stretched, it pulls the teeth inward and closes the gap between the teeth.