Diastema is a term orthodontists use to describe a gap that exists between two teeth that should be touching or otherwise close together.1 Diastema is more commonly known as “gap teeth.” For many people, deciding whether to close the gap is a matter of style, looks, and preference. For others, diastema can cause oral health problems including loose teeth,2 gum inflammation,3 bacterial growth,4 and more.
Fortunately, whether people are choosing to deal with their diastema for cosmetic or health reasons, there a variety of options available to help them close the gap in their smile.
What is diastema?
Diastema is a condition where gaps exist between two teeth.5 These gaps can form anywhere in your mouth but can be most noticeable between the two upper front teeth. Sometimes the gaps in your smile can be small, and sometimes they can be large.
Diastema affects both kids and adults but is more common in children. According to one study, almost half of kids between the ages of three and 12 had a gap between their teeth that was 0.5mm wide or greater.6
What causes diastema?
Baby teeth can be a major cause of diastema in children. Baby teeth are much smaller than the adult teeth coming in behind them, so when they fall out gaps can appear enlarged. These gaps usually close on their own once adult teeth come in.7 Some behaviors can also cause gap teeth, like sucking your thumb,8 grinding your teeth.9 For some people, the gaps between their teeth are due to the size of their jaw or teeth10 or their genetics.
Other possible causes include:
Shifting Teeth – new gaps, or gaps that appear to have gotten larger can be a warning sign that your teeth are shifting in your mouth.
Tongue Positioning – if your tongue continuously adds pressure to the back of your front teeth, it can create a gap over time.11
Gum Disease – pockets12 of plaque and other bacteria found in people with even mild periodontitis can cause teeth to move and gaps between teeth to form.
Age – typically, diastema in children resolves on its own,13 as gaps are more prevalent with baby teeth; as kids age and their permanent teeth come in, the gaps often close.
