I’m big into DIY dentistry when you can do it safely and effectively. I’ve made it my mission to teach as many people as possible to manage their own oral health when possible! I’ve got a ton of other articles on DIY dentistry all throughout my website! I tell you all this so you’ll listen carefully when I tell you this…

Orthofill gaps bands (or any type of rubberband system) used to close gaps are a REALLY TERRIBLE IDEA. Don’t do it! These bands can slide down below your gumline and cause irreversible damage to your teeth. The change you see from these bands is not sustainable. Gaps, especially in between front teeth, have a very strong tendency to open up again without a proper retainer (usually fixed in place by your dentist). The bands also have this nice way of opening up gaps in between other teeth. Repeat after me one more time… don’t use orthofill gap bands!

Most people with large gaps need to be seen by a dentist or orthodontist. If you are really set on straightening your teeth without a dentist, look at Smile Direct Club. While this system will still struggle to close certain types of gaps, at least there is no chance of permanent damage. You also aren’t out a whole lot of money if their assessment comes back saying it won’t work.

One other way to close your gap is to go to a dentist or orthodontist and ask about limited orthodontic treatment just to close the gap. Most don’t offer this because they like to do comprehensive treatment but there are definitely lower cost and quicker professional options for closing a gap.