TREATMENT OF DIASTEMAS
What is a diastema and how do I treat it?
A “diastema” is an extra space between two or more teeth. A diastema is most often seen in the two middle teeth of the upper jaw.
Many children have a diastema when their baby teeth come in, but in most cases these spaces close when the permanent teeth come in.
Diastemas can also be caused by other causes such as:
- A discrepancy in tooth size.
- Missing teeth.
- An overly large labial frenulum.
Other secondary reasons can be oral alignment problems, such as protruding teeth or a horizontal overbite.
What are my treatment options?
Once we at the dental clinic have determined the cause of your diastema, a treatment plan will be assessed.
We can:
- Keep the diastema.
- Have orthodontic treatment to position the teeth and close the diastema.
- Have porcelain veneers fitted.
- Put a crown, bridge or replace a tooth with implants (only in adults).
If the labial frenulum is too large, we will perform a surgical procedure called frenectomy. This involves cutting the frenulum and then repositioning it to allow more flexibility. If the frenectomy is performed on a child, the space may close on its own. If it is an adolescent or adult, orthodontic treatment may be needed to close the space.
