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17Apr

Diastema

by admin

What is diastema?

Diastema refers to a gap or space between the teeth. These spaces can form anywhere in the mouth, but are sometimes noticeable between the two upper front teeth. This condition affects both adults and children. In children, gaps may disappear once their permanent teeth grow in.
Some gaps are small and barely noticeable, whereas other gaps are larger and a cosmetic issue for some people. If you don’t like the way the gap looks, there are ways to close it or reduce its size.

What are the Causes of diastema?

There isn’t one single cause of diastema, but rather several possible contributing factors. In some people, this condition is related to the size of their teeth and the size of their jaw bone. Gaps may form when a person’s teeth are too small for the jaw bone. As a result, teeth are spaced too far apart. The size of your teeth and jaw bone can be determined by genetics, so diastema can run in families.

You may also develop diastema if there’s an overgrowth of the tissue that borders your gum line and your two upper front teeth. This overgrowth causes a separation between these teeth, resulting in a gap.
Certain bad habits may also trigger a gap between the teeth. Children who suck their thumb may form a gap because the sucking motion puts pressure on the front teeth, causing them to pull forward.

What is the Treatment plan for a diastema?

Treatment for a diastema may or may not be necessary depending on the underlying cause. For some people, a diastema is nothing more than a cosmetic issue and it doesn’t indicate a problem like gum disease.
Braces are a common treatment for diastema. Invisible or removable braces may also fix some cases of diastema.
If you don’t want braces, talk to your doctor about cosmetic procedures to fill gaps between your teeth. Veneers or bonding is another option. This procedure uses a tooth-colored composite which can either fill gaps or fit over teeth to improve the appearance of your smile.

This procedure is also useful for fixing a cracked or chipped tooth. You may also be a candidate for a dental bridge, which can replace a missing tooth or correct a gap.
If the gums above your two upper front teeth overextend and cause a gap, surgery to remove excess tissue can correct the gap. You may need braces to fully close larger gaps.

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