What Is Diastema? Treating the Gap Between Your Teeth
A gap between teeth, commonly between the two front ones, is also called diastema. For some, this gap is a beauty marker in some cultures and a feature that some people embrace. For others, it’s a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness. If you’re unhappy with that gap between your teeth, the reasons for seeing a local cosmetic dental provider could be more than just aesthetic.
What Causes Diastema?
A gap between teeth is also known as diastema, which can be large or small and occur anywhere in the mouth. Midline diastema refers to the gap between the two front middle teeth.
Diastema is common among patients of all ages and sometimes genetic. In children, the gap usually disappears after the permanent teeth set in. Most dentists consider diastema part of healthy tooth development, assuming there are no problems with the teeth and gums.
However, some cases of diastema can be signs of an underlying issue. Gaps in teeth can occur because of
- A large frenum, the band of tissue connecting your gums and upper lip
- Teeth that are too small
- Missing teeth
- Atypical swallowing reflex, caused by pressure of the tongue against the front teeth
- Advanced gum disease
Given that some cases of diastema are genetic, there’s no way to prevent the gap as long as you practice good oral hygiene and get regular checkups. The gap shouldn’t get bigger over time, but if you see it increasing, make an appointment with your dentist because it could be a sign of gum disease or other dental problems.
Common Treatments for the Gap Between the Teeth
People with gaps between otherwise healthy teeth don’t have to seek treatment unless they want to enhance their appearance. Your local cosmetic dental professional can offer any of the following treatments, depending on your condition and its severity:
- Braces to align your teeth and move them closer together
- Dental bonding with a composite resin to hide the gap
- Dental bridge or implant if the gap is from a missing tooth
- Frenectomy to thin out the tissue connecting your upper lip with your gums, which can push the teeth apart
- Porcelain veneers to close the tooth gap
If your tooth gap is the result of periodontitis or advanced gum disease, your dentist can perform or recommend a periodontist for any of these procedures:
- Gingival flap surgery for moderate to severe gum disease, which involves cutting along the gum line, moving the gums back, cleaning the roots, and stitching the gums back together
- Scaling and root planing for mild gum disease, which is a more intense cleaning that reaches the bacteria under the gum line
Enhancing Your Smile with Cincinnati Family Dental Care
With healthy teeth and gums, there’s no oral health reason to close the gap between your teeth. However, if you have an underlying dental condition or want to enhance your appearance, your neighborhood oral health provider at Beckham Square Family Dental can work with you on the best solution. If you’re ready to close the gap, contact us today to schedule your next appointment. You’ll be feeling healthier and more confident in no time!