Diastema

Diastema | Diastema: Everything You Need to Know (Tooth Gap)

Diastema: Summary

A diastema is a space between the teeth. A diastema can be caused by a variety of reasons, including gum disease and the tooth-to-jawbone ratio.

The actual cause can be determined by a dentist. In a lot of circumstances, treatment isn't required. For aesthetic reasons, some people choose to receive treatment anyway.

A diastema can be treated in a variety of ways, and the outcomes are usually permanent.

What Is Diastema and How Does It Affect You?

Diastema is a disease in which there is a visible gap between your teeth. It affects both children and adults. Any tooth can have a gap between them. However, the gap between the front teeth is more noticeable. When children's permanent teeth erupt, this gap can sometimes close on its own.

Diastema

For some, it is only a cosmetic issue, but for others, it might pose major dental health risks. Continue reading to learn more about diastema's causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment.

Causes of Diastema Diastema can be brought on by a number of things, including: Natural Development

Gapped front teeth are sometimes the outcome of a child's natural growth. It is rather frequent in the 6-8 year old age group. However, with the growth of upper canines, this gap usually closes.

Teeth in an abnormal position, size, or shape

The likelihood of a gap increases if your teeth have an unusual shape, size, or position. These teeth are unable to provide the necessary pressure and support to keep them from migrating apart.

Teeth that are missing

Underdeveloped or missing surrounding teeth of your upper front teeth are the most typical cause of missing teeth. Upper lateral incisors is another name for them. This disease results in a gap between the front teeth.

Labial Frenum has outgrown it.

The labial frenum is a tissue that covers the inside of the top lip as well as the gum tissue above the upper front teeth. If this tissue develops too large, it might cause a gap in the teeth.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis can also cause a space between your teeth. It is a type of gum disease or infection that causes tissue and bone damage to the teeth. As a result, your teeth become loose and a gap develops.

Swallowing Reflexes That Aren't Working

Your tongue should press against the roof of your mouth if you have good swallowing reflexes. Incorrect swallowing, on the other hand, presses your tongue against your front teeth. This continual pressure might lead to front teeth that are gapped.

Unhealthy Habits

Diastema can be caused by bad behaviours such as chewing lower lips and sucking the thumb or finger. Adults can also invite it by getting their tongue pierced. By repeatedly moving the pierced stud, it can disrupt the growth of front teeth.

Teeth Falling Out of Babies

The loss of baby or permanent teeth can cause a gap between teeth. These kinds of gaps, on the other hand, close as permanent teeth emerge.

Diastema Signs and Symptoms

A gap between the teeth is the most obvious evidence of diastema. Aside from that, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:-

• Gums that are receding

• Gums that are swollen and painful

• Breath Problems

• Gums that are bleeding

• Teeth that are loose

• Gums that are bright red in colour

Diastema Therapy

If the diastema is only temporary owing to the baby's teeth falling out, no treatment is required. It's also not essential if there's no risk to your tooth health. You may, however, decide to treat it merely for aesthetic reasons. If you have a diastema, the following are some of your therapy options:-

Braces

Braces are commonly used to fix gaps in teeth. It corrects diastema by applying pressure to the teeth to bring them closer together. Even if there is only one gap to close, you may need to wear a whole set of braces.

Veneers

Veneers are small pieces of porcelain that are glued to the front of your teeth. It is produced specifically for each patient. In the case of diastema caused by undersized teeth, it is often beneficial.

Treatment with Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear braces system that is used to straighten teeth that are gapped or misaligned. This therapy is suitable for persons of all ages. Because Invisalign aligners are nearly undetectable to others, they are a popular alternative to braces.

Dental implants are a type of dental implant that is used to

If you are missing teeth, you will need to have a dental implant placed. A dental bridge is another name for it. It is a substitute for your teeth that is fastened to your jawbones using a metal screw.

For support, a device is attached on either side of the teeth gap.

Treatment for Gum Disease

When you have diastema as a result of gum disease, the dentist must first treat it. Otherwise, the infection could spread and cause tooth loss. The therapy for gum disease entails eliminating tartar from the gums.

Dental bonding is a process that involves the bonding of two or more teeth. When a gap between teeth is caused by one or more smaller teeth, dental bonding can be used to close the gap. The resin is put to the surface of your teeth in this procedure. It is also toughened by the use of laser rays.

Orthodontics is a type of dentistry that focuses on the teeth

You may need orthodontic surgery if your diastema is caused by an aberrant frenum or a cyst. The superfluous tissue will be removed during surgery. Only after the procedure may orthodontic treatment begin.

Preventing Diastema

Natural causes of diastema cannot be prevented. However, you can minimise your risk by making some lifestyle adjustments.

• It is suggested that you brush your teeth twice a day.

• Floss at least once a day.

• Assist your children in breaking bad behaviours like thumb-sucking.

• Teach your child how to swallow properly.

• Regular dental check-ups and expert dental cleanings are recommended.

Dental implants or a bridge are two options for replacing missing teeth.

If a diastema exists due to lost teeth, more substantial dental procedures, such as implants or a dental bridge, may be required.

Dental implants are placed by screwing metal screws into the jawbone and connecting new teeth to them.

A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is attached to the teeth on either side of the gap via a device.

Surgery

When a diastema is caused by an enormous labial frenum, the dentist may suggest a frenectomy, which involves removing the extra tissue. Braces or another therapy may be required for older children and adults to close the gap. The gap may close on its own in younger children.

Outlook

Depending on the underlying cause, the prognosis varies. Most diastemas, however, can be eliminated or reduced with treatment.

Unless the person resumes behaviours like thumb sucking or fails to follow their dentist's advice, the gap will usually narrow after treatment.

Prevention

It is impossible to avoid every occurrence of diastema.

If gum disease or bad habits are the culprit, practising excellent dental hygiene can assist.

• Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist for regular inspections and cleanings

• preventing toddlers from sucking their thumbs and assisting them in breaking the habit

• repairing faulty swallowing reflexes

When should you see a dentist?

If you or your child has a diastema and are concerned about it, you should talk to your dentist.

All children should be evaluated by an orthodontist by the age of seven, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.

A dentist or orthodontist can determine the root of the problem and, if necessary, prescribe therapy.

Conclusion

If you observe any signs of diastema in yourself or your child, don't hesitate to see a dentist. The gap between teeth may not appear to be a problem at first. However, a trip to the dentist is necessary to rule out any underlying tooth issues.