What are the Causes of Diastema?

Do you or does someone you know have a large gap between the front teeth. When the spacing between teeth is wider than 0.5 millimeters the dental term for this condition is diastema. The condition is common among both children and adults, however for children it is more common for the spacing to disappear once the adult teeth come in. Fortunately, diastema is not harmful, and treatment is not required. If you or a loved one has diastema, you may be wondering what causes the condition. Below is more information about the potential causes of diastema and some details on treatment options.

Potential Causes of Diastema

There are many potential causes for an individual to develop diastema. These include:

  • The natural size of the teeth: If the teeth are too small in comparison to the jawbone this may cause spacing to develop between the teeth. The size of the jawbone and teeth are influenced by genetics, which partially explains why diastema can run in families.
  • Missing teeth: A missing tooth, especially, a missing upper lateral incisor, which are the teeth on the sides of the two front teeth, will naturally cause a large gap in the front of the smile. Overtime, the teeth may shift and more spacing can be created by just one missing tooth.
  • Oversized labial frenum: The labial frenum is small piece of tissue on the inside of the upper lip that connects to the gum. If this tissue is oversized it can cause a gap between the front teeth.
  • Gum disease: Advancing gum disease can cause the gums to become loose and the jawbone to weaken. Receding gums and weakened bones can lead to tooth loss and eventually, spacing between teeth.
  • Incorrect swallowing reflex: Whether you know it or not, the proper way to swallow involves the tongue pressing against the roof of the mouth. Some children push their tongue against their front teeth instead. Overtime, this repetitive pressure on the teeth will cause them to push forward. Eventually, this pressure may cause a gap to form.
  • Habits: Bad habits that are often practiced during childhood, including thumb sucking, lip sucking, and tongue thrusting can all put pressure on the front teeth, pushing them forward. Shifting in the front teeth may lead to diastema.
  • Temporary diastema: Nearly two-thirds of children have temporary diastema when their primary teeth, or baby teeth, fall out. Then, when their permanent teeth come in, the gap closes. This temporary gap is common, and dentists do not consider it as needing treatment.

Treatment Options for Diastema

Determining the cause of the diastema will make it easier for your dentist to come up with an appropriate and effective treatment plan. There are many possible treatment options for fixing diastema, however knowing the cause is important to selecting the appropriate treatment. The best place to start is to have a conversation with your dentist. They will help determine the cause of your diastema, complete an oral exam, and start developing a treatment plan that is right for you.

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