Diastema

A diastema is a gap between two teeth. It is most often seen between the two upper front teeth, where it is called a midline diastema, but it can occur anywhere in the mouth. Gaps are normal in children while adult teeth are coming through, and many close on their own as the permanent canines erupt.

Why It Matters

In adults, a diastema is usually a cosmetic concern rather than a health problem, and many people choose to keep theirs. However, a gap that appears or widens later in life can be a sign of an underlying problem, such as periodontal disease causing teeth to drift. Identifying the cause also matters for treatment, because if the cause remains, the gap may reopen after it has been closed.

Clinical Details

• Tooth–jaw size mismatch: Teeth that are small relative to the jaw, or narrow or peg-shaped upper lateral incisors, leave spaces.
• Missing teeth: A congenitally missing or extracted tooth lets neighbouring teeth drift apart.
• Labial frenum: A thick or low band of tissue between the upper lip and gum can hold the front teeth apart.
• Gum disease: Loss of bone support can let teeth move and fan out, creating new gaps.
• Habits: Tongue thrusting or prolonged thumb-sucking can push the front teeth forward.
• Orthodontic closure: Braces or clear aligners move the teeth together. This is the option that does not alter tooth structure, and a retainer is needed afterwards to keep the gap closed.
• Composite bonding: Tooth-coloured composite is added to the sides of the teeth to close small gaps, usually without drilling. See composite bonding for what results are realistic.
• Veneers or crowns: Can close gaps while also changing tooth shape and colour; best suited when other cosmetic changes are wanted too. See veneers.
• Frenectomy: Minor surgery to reposition or remove a prominent frenum, usually combined with orthodontics.
• Bridge or implant: If the space is due to a missing tooth.

FAQ

What is a diastema?

A diastema is the clinical term for a gap between teeth, often called "gap teeth". The most common type is between the two upper front teeth.

What causes a gap between the front teeth?

Common causes are small teeth relative to the jaw, a missing tooth, a prominent lip frenum, gum disease, or habits such as tongue thrusting. Sometimes it simply runs in the family.

Can a diastema close on its own?

In children, gaps often reduce as the adult teeth erupt. In adults, a gap does not usually close by itself, and an increasing gap should be checked by a dentist.

Bonding, veneers or braces: which is best for a diastema?

Braces or aligners move the teeth and preserve them. Bonding is quick and conservative for small gaps. Veneers suit cases where the shape or colour of the teeth will also be changed. The right choice depends on the gap size, the cause and your goals.

Will the gap come back after treatment?

It can, particularly after orthodontic closure or if the original cause, such as a frenum or gum disease, is not addressed. Wearing a retainer as advised helps prevent relapse.

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