Spaces or diastema in between teeth can look very unappealing and steal away the spark from your smile or facial aesthetics. Gaps can occur anywhere in your mouth, but they are more common between your two front teeth. Though this may be a cosmetic concern, sometimes, it’s related to gum disease. If you suffer from this dental problem, consult the dentist Mill Creek WA for further evaluation and management. 

To learn more about diastema, its causes, symptoms, and management read this informative blog. 

What is diastema?

Diastema is the clinical term for a gap in between your teeth. Midline diastema (the gap between the front two teeth) is the most common, however, gaps may occur in other areas of the mouth as well. Though they do not have any significant impact on your oral health, they are a cause of concern since it impart an unaesthetic appearance. 

What causes diastema?

You may be prone to diastema due to genetics, where it runs in families. This may be caused by:

• Missing teeth 
• Teeth that are too small
• An oversized frenum 
• An abnormal swallowing reflex
• Advanced gum disease 

What are the symptoms of diastema?

A significant gap between your teeth is the classical sign of diastema. However, if gum disease causes diastema, you may notice other symptoms such as:

• Gum pain
• Bleeding 
• Redness
• Swelling around the gums 

How do you correct diastema?

There are several ways to fix diastema. The options include:

• • Cosmetic treatments for diastema 

    • Dental bonding 
      • A tooth-colored composite resin material is used to build up the gap and conceal it. 
      • The teeth are shaped accordingly and polished to impart a natural appearance.

• Porcelain veneers

• • • • These are customized shells that permanently adhere to your front tooth surfaces to close a gap.

    • Braces 

      • If the gap is too large you may need braces or clear aligners to physically move your teeth closer together. 

• Frenectomy

• • • • A thick frenum can push the teeth apart, creating a gap.
      • Frenectomy is a surgical procedure that releases this thick band of tissues. 

• Dental bridge

• • • If the gap occurs due to missing teeth, it can be corrected by teeth replacement through dental implants. 

  • Dental implants 

    • This screw-like post helps replace missing teeth through osseointegration.
    • They provide anchorage to permanent dental crowns. 

• Gum disease treatment for diastema:

  • Scaling and root planing 
  • Gingival flap surgery 

Final note

Diastema is usually a cosmetic concern which does not affect the oral health and function. If the gap is negatively impacting your facial aesthetics, consult a dentist for further evaluation and management. There are several cosmetic procedures that help conceal the gap to achieve the healthy, gorgeous, and long-lasting smile you desire.