Gap Between Teeth (Diastema): Causes and Options

A diastema is a visible space between two teeth, most often the upper front teeth. Common causes are teeth that are small compared with the jaw, a large frenum pulling the teeth apart, missing or peg-shaped teeth, and childhood habits such as thumb-sucking or pushing the tongue against the teeth.

In adults, gaps that appear or widen later can come from gum disease, which loosens teeth, or tooth loss. A new or widening gap should be checked. In children, a gap between the front teeth is often a normal stage that closes as the other teeth erupt.

Often it is only a cosmetic matter. It becomes a concern when food packs between the teeth, the gums are inflamed, the teeth are moving, or the bite is affected. Wear and loosening are signs of gum disease, covered by gum treatment.

The right option depends on the cause and the size of the gap. Braces or aligners move the teeth together and are the choice when the gap comes from tooth position or the bite, with the planning described on braces and orthodontics. Retainers are needed afterwards so the gap does not return.

Bonding adds tooth-coloured material to widen the teeth and close small gaps, and the dental gap filling guide explains how that works. Veneers cover the front of the teeth and can also close gaps, with the trade-offs in veneers vs braces.

If a tight frenum is pulling the teeth apart, a minor procedure may be advised, usually after braces. Gaps caused by gum disease need the gums treated first. A dentist can lay out the options after an examination, and wider cosmetic planning is on the smile design page.

Children often have spaces between baby teeth, which help make room for bigger adult teeth. A gap between the upper front adult teeth often narrows as the canines come in. If it persists, or if a thumb-sucking habit is behind it, a dentist can check.

A dentist should also check a gap that keeps widening, or that comes with loose teeth or bleeding gums.