What Is Diastema? Cause and Treatments 

What is Diastema?

Diastema, or space between the teeth, is a gap that can occur anywhere in the mouth. It’s often more noticeable when the gap is between the two upper front teeth, a condition known as Midline Diastema. This gap varies in size and shape and can happen to both kids and adults.

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Diastema isn’t something to worry about from a health standpoint. It doesn’t pose any risk to your teeth, so individuals don’t necessarily need to treat it. However, it’s still possible to fix this gap through various dental treatments for a more aesthetic appearance.

Who Gets Affected The Most By Diastema?

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As we said, Diastema affects both children and adults alike. But it’s more common in children, and gaps between their teeth as soon as their adult teeth fully develop.

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Interestingly enough, midline diastema is more prevalent in certain populations than others. For instance, people who are black are more prone to have Diastema than people of white or Asian descent.

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What Are The Main Causes Of Diastema?

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Different factors can cause Diastema; some of them can be prevented, and others cannot. So here are the main causes of teeth gaps:

Genetics

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Genetics is the number one factor in the likelihood of developing Diastema. Tooth gaps may run in families (similarly to other dental issues) due to missing teeth, small teeth or oversized frenum.

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Periodontitis

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Another factor of Diastema could be Periodontitis or gum disease, which are dental conditions that generally occur as a result of poor oral hygiene. These conditions can infect the jawbone and, therefore, cause gaps and tooth loss.

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Problems in tooth development

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Due to some childhood habits, accidents, and dental issues, children can lose teeth during early and late childhood, which can cause a gap between teeth or change the position of teeth. This condition is commonly known as Hyperdontia, or extra teeth.

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Sometimes, an unusual swallowing reflex can cause Diastema. Normally, your tongue should press against the roof of your mouth when you swallow. But if you press your tongue against your front teeth instead, the repeated pressure can create a gap over time.

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What Are The Best Treatments For Diastema

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If your teeth are healthy and you wish to close the gap between your teeth, there are several cosmetic dental treatments available, including:

Dental bonding

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Dental bonding is a very common treatment option for filling small gaps and fixing crooked teeth. This treatment involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material to fill the gap, which is then molded and shaped for a natural appearance.

Dental Veneers

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A dental veneer is a thin, tailor-made ceramic shell bonded to the front teeth. Porcelain veneers can close the existing gap between the teeth and help you achieve a better smile.

Braces

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In case the gap between your teeth is very large, your dentist may recommend braces or orthodontic aligners to move your teeth closer together physically.

Orthodontic Treatment

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Orthodontic treatment is an effective solution for correcting Diastema. This typically involves using wired braces to apply pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them together to close the gaps.

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Invisalign is also a great option for closing gaps. These clear aligners are less noticeable and can be a more comfortable choice. Discuss this treatment with your orthodontist to see if it’s right for you.

Dental Bridge

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If the gap between your teeth is due to tooth loss, a dental bridge can be a one-stop solution. Your dentist will place a bridge to replace the missing tooth, provided you have two healthy teeth on either side of the gap.

Dental Implant

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Similar to a dental bridge, an implant is a replacement for a missing tooth. However, with a dental implant, there’s no need to alter the neighboring teeth. An implant is a threaded titanium post that replaces a missing tooth root, providing a stable and long-lasting solution.

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Treating Diastema At Al Siraj Medical Center

Do you have a gap between your teeth and want to close it as soon as possible? Our expert dentists at Al Siraj can help.

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The dentists of Al Siraj perform all kinds of treatments for Diastema, such as Diastema dental bonding, braces, dental bridges, veneers, implants, and more!

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So what are you waiting for? Fill in the appointment form or call us now at +974 44493666 and get the aesthetic appearance you desire, and if you

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Diastema FAQs

• Why do I suddenly have a gap between my teeth?

This can be due to teeth grinding or jaw clenching.

• Do teeth gaps increase with age?

In a healthy mouth, the gap between teeth shouldn’t increase with age. If you see that the gap between your teeth is getting wider, it’s potentially due to gum disease, and you should consult with your dentist very soon.

• How long does it take to close Diastema?

If an individual gets braces, it may take him from 6 months to even a few years to close the Diastema.

• Can teeth gaps close naturally?

This is likely to happen with children. When they are growing, their jaw size increases, so gaps can appear as new teeth come through. Small gaps may then close naturally.

• What is the cheapest way to close a gap in your teeth?

Dental bonding is probably the cheapest way to fix spacing in teeth.

• What is the best treatment for a gap in your teeth?

Dental implants are considered to be the best and most permanent solution for closing a gap between teeth.