Do you have a notable gap between your front teeth? This is what dentists call a “diastema.” The good news is that you don’t need to worry. In most cases, this isn’t harmful and doesn’t require treatment. However, many people don’t like the appearance of the space between their front teeth. Continue reading to learn why this can occur and what you can do about it.
What Causes a Diastema?
There are several reasons why a diastema can occur. Here are some of the most common ones.
- Small Teeth: In some families, having smaller teeth in relation to the jawbone is genetic. In this situation, spaces can develop.
- Gum Disease: If you have gum disease at a more advanced stage, your teeth can migrate, causing gaps. Without treatment, your teeth could eventually fall out.
- Missing Teeth: When a tooth is missing, your other teeth will move around, and you could develop spaces. This occurs more often when the teeth on either side of the front teeth are missing.
- Oversized Labial Frenum: The labial frenum is the tissue that extends from the inside of your upper lip to the gum this is above your upper front teeth. If this is larger than average, a gap can form between the teeth.
- Non-Nutritive Habits: If you sucked your thumb, lip, or thrust your tongue as a child, you can develop a diastema as a result.
What Can You Do About a Diastema?
The good news is that if you aren’t happy with the appearance of your smile, you don’t have to settle for it. Correcting a diastema can even help some people keep their smile cleaner and improve their overall bite. Here are some possible treatment options that may be able to give you the more uniform smile that you are hoping for.
- Orthodontic Treatment: With traditional braces or Invisalign clear aligners, the teeth can be shifted to be the perfect distance apart, eliminating your diastema.
- Tooth Replacement: If your diastema is due to missing teeth, they can be replaced with dental bridges, dental implants, or dentures.
- Surgery: If your diastema is due to an oversized labial frenum, surgery may be needed to fix it.
Diastemas aren’t usually harmful, but not everyone likes how they look. By scheduling a consultation with your dentist, you can discuss your options. You will be showing off your dream smile in just a matter of time.
About the Author
Dr. Cristina Herrera earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Oklahoma. Since then, she has completed over 100 hours of continuing education every year through respected institutions, like Spear Education. Currently, she is an active member of the American Dental Association and California Dental Association. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (408) 378-8773.